Funstation Hosts First VIP Day for Rays of Sunshine in Belfast

A Magical Day for Lily and Her Family

A red carpet, a colourful balloon arch and a day filled with games, treats, and surprises, that’s how Funstation Belfast welcomed 8-year-old local Wish child Lily and her family for its very first VIP Day in partnership with Rays of Sunshine children's charity.

The special event gave Lily and her siblings the chance to laugh, play and create unforgettable memories together, while celebrating Funstation’s long-standing support of the children’s charity. From start to finish, it was a day designed to make them feel like true VIPs — and it did not disappoint.

Lily and family with Rays of Sunshine, Patrick Grasso and Garrett McFadden.

VIP Treatment at Funstation's Belfast

From the moment they stepped through the balloon arch, Lily and her family were greeted with pre-loaded Funcards, lanyards and gift bags packed with Funstation treats and merchandise. With smiles all around, the family set off to explore Funstation's exciting mix of games, interactive Pixel Floor and the Belfast Giants-inspired Hockey Table.

Meeting the Belfast Giants

The day got even more exciting when Belfast Giants players Patrick Grasso and Garrett McFadden dropped in for a surprise visit. Lily and her siblings joined the players for a lively “Play Against the Giants” challenge on our Belfast Giant's Hockey Table, in a highlight of the day that had everyone smiling.

To top it off, Patrick Grasso, proudly sponsored by Funstation, gifted Lily and her family tickets to an upcoming Champions Hockey League game, ensuring the fun and excitement would continue long after the VIP Day ended.

Belfast Giants Patrick Grasso gifting Lily tickets to the upcoming Champions Hockey League.

Supporting Rays of Sunshine

Alongside the family fun, Funstation presented a £2,500 donation to Rays of Sunshine, who support children like Lily by granting magical wishes and creating uplifting experiences for seriously ill young people across Northern Ireland and the UK.

Funstation Belfast’s £2,500 donation will help Rays of Sunshine continue their incredible work with seriously ill children and their families across Northern Ireland.

Amy Chambers, CEO of Rays of Sunshine, shared her gratitude:

The Funstation team have been loyal supporters of Rays of Sunshine for many years, and we were delighted to be able to join them at their Belfast arcade and receive a generous donation at the same time. We rely on the generosity of our partners to brighten the lives of seriously and terminally ill children when they need it most and we are so grateful for their continued support.

Watching wish child Lily and her family enjoy the amusements was a huge highlight, and we know so many other children in Belfast and beyond will love what Funstation has to offer.

Family Fun in Odyssey Place

The celebrations didn’t stop at Funstation as the celebrations stretched across Odyssey Place. The family also enjoyed a pizza lunch at Little Wing Sliced, some friendly competition at Lost City Apocalypse Adventure Golf and a sweet treat at Titanic Desserts, where Lily created her very own waffle and milkshake. To keep the magic going, Cineworld gifted tickets for a future film of the family’s choice. The family’s joy was clear throughout the day.

Lily’s mum, Madeline, summed up the experience:

Lily and her brother and sister had an absolute ball and Lily said it was ‘the best day ever'. They had a great time with Patrick and Garrett from the Belfast Giants playing all the arcade games, especially the ice hockey game!

As a family, we cannot thank Funstation enough. They couldn’t have done anything more for our family on the day. From the welcome packs, the passes, the food and desserts and of course the teddies from the machines. Thank you for such a lovely family day out and for your ongoing support for the Rays of Sunshine charity!

Creating Smiles That Last

Funstation’s first VIP Day wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Rays of Sunshine, the Belfast Giants, Little Wing Sliced, Lost City Apocalypse, Titanic Desserts and Cineworld. Together, we created a seamless day of entertainment, food and unforgettable family fun.

By championing family-friendly fun and giving back to the local community, Funstation continues to make a real difference in the communities we serve. Our VIP Days show the incredible impact of Rays of Sunshine’s work in Northern Ireland and the role Funstation plays in creating magical, memorable experiences for children and families across the UK.

Plan your next family day out at Funstation Belfast and discover the magic for yourself. Find out more about Rays of Sunshine and how you can help grant wishes for seriously ill children at http://raysofsunshine.org.uk/