Open Call: European Toy Maker Festival 2025 in Seiffen, Erzgebirge
Open Call
European Toy Maker Festival 2025 in Seiffen, Erzgebirge
The tradition of toy craftsmanship lives on! The European Capital of Culture Chemnitz 2025 and Seiffen, the heart of Erzgebirge wooden toy manufacturing, invite you to a unique event:
European Toy Maker Festival 2025
August 29 – 31, 2025 at the former swimming pool in Seiffen, Saxony
We are looking for toy makers from all over Europe who would like to present their craftsmanship and enter into dialogue with other artisans from the Ore Mountains, Germany and Europe and all guests. Wooden toy makers are particularly welcome, as their works reflect the diversity and tradition of this special craft.
What can you expect?
- A stage for your art: showcase your products and skills to an international audience
- Workshops & demonstrations: provide insights into your work and inspire visitors
- Exchange and networking: connect with other toymakers, artists, and experts
- A colourful supporting program: musical and cultural highlights for the whole family
- A unique location: after many years, we are bringing the swimming pool back to life
Who can participate?
- Professional toymakers, craft businesses, and artisans
- Innovators combining traditional techniques with modern approaches
- Focus: Wooden toys and related crafts
Selection criteria
A board of trustees made up of experienced toy makers and the Makers, Business & Arts program of the European Capital of Culture Chemnitz 2025 will select the submissions. The selection is based on:
- European diversity
- Quality of the presentation idea / originality
- Balance of young and experienced toy makers and diversity
Conditions
- Selected toy makers will receive a fee of EUR 1,000 net.
- The fee includes all travel, insurance and transport costs.
- One overnight stay on site for up to seven days will be provided.
- Arrival is no later than August 27th, departure from September 1st.
- If you sell products on site, the fee will be reduced.
Application
We look forward to your application by March 16, 2025, at: denkstatt.erzgebirge@seiffen.de
Your application should include:
1. A brief introduction of yourself/your business
2. Photos and short descriptions of your products
3. Information on possible workshops or demonstrations you would like to offer
Be part of this unique festival and let’s celebrate the toy tradition together! We look forward to your creative ideas and your participation!
