Deutsches Kindermedienfestival GOLDENER SPATZ

The largest children's media festival in the German-speaking world

Since 1979, the GOLDENER SPATZ has been a firm fixture in the calendar of German-language children's media. Originally founded in the GDR, the Deutsche Kindermedienstiftung Goldener Spatz was established in 1993 to continue the festival after reunification. Erfurt has been a second venue since 2003, and since 2008, the festival has taken place annually in Erfurt and Gera.

A festival that takes children seriously

GOLDENER SPATZ differs from other film festivals through its unique jury practice: 28 children aged 9 to 13 from all over Germany view, discuss, and evaluate the nominated films. They award the GOLDENEN SPATZEN in several categories – from feature films and series to web formats and interactive offerings.

Programme & Encounters

Around 100 film, media, and professional events shape the festival: premieres, workshop talks with filmmakers, a three-day Pop-Up Media Workshop, the Fach Forum for industry professionals, an interactive competition Digital Storytelling with an experience exhibition, as well as further training for teachers and media educators.

Location Erfurt – the state capital of Thuringia

Erfurt is the seat of the festival management and belongs to the district of Erfurt (independent city) in Thuringia. The main venue is the Zughafen Kulturbahnhof, a former railway area that has been converted into one of the city's most vibrant cultural hubs. The festival is supported by, among others, MDR, ZDF, RTL Deutschland, and the cities of Erfurt and Gera.