Brothers Colin and Adam Van Dyk got up at 6 a.m. on Friday and instead of heading to school in Ingersoll, near Woodstock, their mother drove to the opening of Canada’s first Legoland Discovery Centre.

Both wore Lego-inspired T-shirts and had a hard time keeping still in line among the 100 or so other eager people who showed up for the opening at the Vaughn Mills Centre.

“It’s the first wonderland in Canada, and I’m so excited it’s close to where we live!” Colin said, squirming in line after admitting he and his brother “have like, three huge tubs of Lego” in their house.

Their mother, Karen Van Dyk, a massage therapist from Ingersoll, said taking them to the grand opening was a no-brainer.

“They’re huge fans and they received annual passes to Legoland as Christmas presents,” she said.

The two little boys show their cards, which feature portrait shots of each of them grinning proudly.

“They had to miss school today and I’m sure the teachers won’t be impressed but how could we not come?!” Van Dyk said.

The 34,000-square-foot centre features Lego rides, classes from a Lego Master Model Builder, a 4D cinema and a Toronto “miniland” featuring LEGO structures based on well-known Toronto landmarks. There are also blocks and accessories at the $12-million centre that can accommodate 1,200 visitors a day. Tickets were sold ahead of today’s opening to guarantee entry, but walk-ins are also welcome.

“We’re expecting today to be really busy,” said store manager Rene Gurtner.

“This place looks amazing. It’s going to be an awesome day!!” Colin said, grinning from ear to ear.

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