230 years of toys - an anniversary full of history and celebrations in Hallein

230 years of toys - an anniversary full of history and celebrations in Hallein

An important tradition comes to life in Hallein in October, as the oldest still existing toy store in Austria, Oedl, celebrates an impressive anniversary: ​​230 years of children's joy. In the old town at Unterer Markt, the shop not only sold toys, but also made history.

The company was founded in 1794. At a time when wooden toy production in Hallein became a crucial sideline for the miners, the foundation for the company's long history was laid. The combination of regional resource availability and craftsmanship made it possible to grow wooden toys beyond borders. Over the years, toy trends changed - tin toys became popular around 1900 and replaced wooden products. But the fascination for toys of all kinds remains to this day, says Alois Oedl, the current owner.

A diverse anniversary program

To celebrate this remarkable event, the company has put together a three-day festival program starting on October 3rd. From 10 a.m. a fair will be held in front of the shop and the nearby Celtic Museum, offering exciting attractions for both children and adults. Games in the museum's garden provide additional entertainment.

On the first evening there will be clarifying insights into the company's 230-year success story. Anna Holzner, an expert on the subject, will talk about the beginnings through to the challenges and successes of the Oedl family in the Celtic Museum at 7 p.m.

October 4th promises an extraordinary connection between the modern and historical gaming worlds. Anniversary Barbies from different eras are presented humorously and create an interesting comparison with everyday objects of the Celts. These insights are accompanied by Benedikt Oedl and the city chronicler, who report on the beginnings of the business and the family's cultural heritage. At 7 p.m. the film “Barbie” will be shown in the museum's cinema, which will certainly delight not only the little ones.

The last day of the festival on October 5th starts at 10 a.m. with an official ceremony at which the Hallein Citizens' Guard, the Citizens' Corps Band and the Halleiner Liedertafel 1849 will be present. On this occasion, Alois Oedl is presenting a rarity: restored wooden figures from his private collection. The anniversary ends on a musical note with a festive concert by SuperBrass Light and B. Macheiner in the Celtic Museum.

The Spielwaren Oedl anniversary is more than just a celebration - it is a tribute to children's play and to traditions that connect generations. For anyone who wants to experience the special magic of wooden toys and nostalgic memories, a visit to Hallein is worth it. There is great anticipation for the celebrations, and many will certainly look back on this journey through time through the world of toys with shining eyes.

Trainees, students and young people also have the opportunity to learn about the development of toys over the years while taking part in the festivities. Above all, the integration of surprises for visitors shows that both children and adults are in for a magical weekend. Following in the footsteps of the wooden toys and the stories from 230 years, we recommend taking a look at the festival program, which has something to offer for everyone. The invitations have been extended and the people of Hallein are looking forward to sharing their cultural heritage with a broad audience - a history that should remain alive in the future.

More information and insights into the history of the game are also available in a detailed report on www.sn.at to find.