materialise family day.

The man, the myth, the Materialise legend.

On September 7, 2024, Materialise hosted a special Family Day at its headquarters. 2024 marked the moment when founder and visionary Wilfried Vancraen passed the torch to a new generation. As a tribute to his legacy and to celebrate his role as the godfather of Materialise, employees’ families were invited. It was not only a warm farewell to Wilfried, but also an opportunity for partners, children, and parents to get a unique glimpse into what their family member does every day.

A look behind the scenes.

Usually, the company is the place where mom, dad, son, or daughter go about their daily work. On this day, it opened its doors to everyone. During guided tours with videos and explanations, visitors discovered what Materialise does and how it does it. The experience made the company tangible for those who normally only hear about it around the dinner table.

Where princesses and engineers meet.

In the parking area, a festive setting awaited with plenty of activities and 10 different food trucks. The youngest guests enjoyed face painting sessions that transformed them into their favorite princess or superhero, a bouncy castle park, a spectacular circus workshop by Circus in Beweging, and giant soap bubbles that created a magical atmosphere. Meanwhile, parents relaxed to live music and chose from an extensive food truck selection, ranging from savory bites to sweet treats.

Intimate and welcoming.

Under a large sailcloth tent decorated with long garlands and colorful flags, guests were warmly welcomed. Tables and benches created a relaxed and informal atmosphere. Outside the tent, standing tables and wine barrels offered perfect spots to enjoy the beautiful weather. This sunny September day became an unforgettable experience for young and old alike. It proved to be not only a beautiful farewell to Wilfried, but also a heartfelt gathering for the entire Materialise family.