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THE SWAN WOMAN | Fairy tales and stories about obstacles and true strength

Every year in November, the BERLIN FAIRY TALE DAYS provide inspiration through shared fairy tale experiences for young and old festival visitors. The BERLIN FAIRY TALE DAYS are the largest fairy tale festival in the world. It was launched in 1989 on the occasion of the fall of the Berlin Wall under the motto "Fairy tales overcome borders". Every year in November, around 800 events take place in 350 locations around a common annual theme.



BERLIN FAIRY TALE DAYS 2025


Fearlessly accompany the makers of the 36th BERLIN FAIRY TALE DAYS on expeditions into intergalactic parallel worlds, ancient myths, cosmic eternities and immortal fairy tale universes.


The motto for 2025:

THE SWAN WOMAN | Fairy tales and stories about obstacles and true strength


Those who do not conform to the social norm often run the risk of being devalued. It is often overlooked that no one is completely "normal". It is precisely the individual characteristics that make everyone unique people with diverse characteristics and strengths.

People can learn a lot from fairy tales in this context. They tell of miracles, curses and people who are anything but perfect - and that is precisely what makes them seem special and lovable.

The beautiful princess was originally a poor girl, and the brave prince was considered the stupidest of the three brothers. There is the hunchback, Thumbling, the girl without hands and many other characters. People often forget this because they remember the happy ending above all.

Fairy tales often depict the lives of outsiders who overcome their difficult situation and the prejudices of others through magic, miraculous encounters or their kindness and helpfulness. Characters with physical or social disabilities are often portrayed as particularly sympathetic.

Fairy tales carry a message of tolerance, because unlike many other stories, the happiness of the protagonists here does not depend on overcoming their disability. Many fairy tales therefore focus on an inclusive idea and open up a new way of looking at the world:

Belief in oneself and acceptance of one's own differences are the focus. This inner certainty of being who one is is the key to a fulfilled and self-determined life.


The events take place in many languages.
Additional information