British entertainment group Merlin Entertainments announced on Wednesday that Legoland Shanghai Resort will welcome its first visitors on July 5, marking the debut of what will become the world's largest Legoland at its opening.

Located in Fengjing town in Shanghai's Jinshan district, the resort is designed for families with children aged two to 12. The complex features eight themed lands housing over 75 interactive rides, shows and attractions, incorporating more than 85 million Lego bricks across thousands of models throughout the resort.

"Announcing the grand opening date is a major milestone for Legoland Shanghai Resort," said John Jakobsen, chief strategic portfolio development officer at Merlin Entertainments.

"We're excited to be welcoming guests through the door upon resort opening and are getting ready to bring to life the immersive, imaginative and creative theme park experience that only Legoland can offer," he said, noting that the resort will make Lego possibilities come to life on an epic scale, sparking a lifetime of play, creativity and imagination.

Merlin Entertainments CEO Fiona Eastwood highlighted the strategic importance of the location in Shanghai, noting that 55 million people live within a two-hour drive. "We've got deep knowledge of this market and are very excited about its potential. The resort will become a beachhead and the Lego clubhouse for all fans in China," she said.

As the resort enters its final construction phase, all 24 core rides are undergoing commissioning for final preopening adjustments. The park arch is complete, exterior work is concluding and the Legoland Hotel has transitioned to operational readiness. Around 1,000 employees have been recruited to ensure smooth operations.

The resort's Miniland, a signature Legoland attraction globally, features Lego replicas of urban landscapes, historical landmarks and natural wonders, enhanced by dynamic lighting, immersive soundscapes and interactive play zones. Visitors will be able to explore both indoor and outdoor Miniland areas as well as a High Tower area.

The resort will present 22 daily Lego character meet-and-greets, 11 themed shows and special events, as well as a 4D cinema screening popular Lego movies throughout the day. The world-premiere Lego Monkie Kid Live show will feature 13 puppeteers and a 3.7-meter-tall Demon Bull King puppet operated by three puppeteers.

The Legoland Hotel offers 250 themed rooms across five themes: Lego City, Lego Friends, Lego Castle, Lego Ninjago and the exclusive Lego Monkie Kid. The hotel displays more than 1,700 Lego art installations and 200 interactive Lego features, as well as a Lego Minifigure Wall with over 4,500 Lego minifigures.

Limited edition First-to-Play Annual Passes and First-to-Stay Hotel Staycation Packages, both with theme park preview tickets, are now available, offering preview access and year-round benefits.

Lin Huanjie, director of the Institute for Theme Park Studies in China, expressed optimism about the park's prospects. "Legoland is well-known around the world and Shanghai is a cultural and economic hub. I believe the resort will perform well upon opening," he said.

zhengzheng@chinadaily.com.cn