attendees at the toy manufacturer's festival in Seiffen number approximately 1,500 people - Thousands gather for the Toy Makers Festival in Seiffen, event attendance estimated at approximately 1,500 people
In the picturesque town of Seiffen, nestled in the heart of the Erzgebirge mountains, a unique festival is taking place. This year, the European Toy Maker Festival, a celebration of traditional craftsmanship and modern design, has attracted guests from across the globe.
One of the special visitors is Maho Ito, a Japanese wooden toy maker who learned her craft from Christian Werner and his brothers in Seiffen. Maho, who now practices her art in Tokyo and runs a store there, visited Werner on Friday.
The festival, held in a former swimming pool, features Erzgebirge wooden art, including toys, angels, miners, and smokers. This centuries-old tradition has been recognised as part of Germany's intangible cultural heritage this year.
The festival aims to bring people together, particularly in times of societal polarization. It has also partnered with Chemnitz, the European Capital of Culture 2025, to further promote cultural exchange.
Over 40 toy makers from nine European and overseas countries, including Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Switzerland, Spain, and the Czech Republic, have participated in the festival.
After a specialist forum on Friday, around 2,000 visitors are expected for Saturday and Sunday. This number is similar to the population of Seiffen, making the festival a significant event for the town.
Saxon Minister President Michael Kretschmer (CDU) has announced his visit to the festival, adding to its prestige. The first European toy maker festival, held in Seiffen, attracted approximately 1,500 visitors on its first day.
The festival's programme includes workshops, lectures, and concerts, providing visitors with a comprehensive insight into the world of wooden toy making. Project leader Josephine Hage and her team have worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this unique event.
With its focus on traditional craftsmanship, modern design, and cultural exchange, the European Toy Maker Festival in Seiffen is likely unique worldwide in its current form. It serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of handmade toys and the power of art to bring people together.
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