Germany’s Iconic Sandmännchen Celebrates 65 Years on Air

The beloved children's TV character, first broadcast in East Germany in 1959, is honored with extended episodes, retrospectives, and a new short film.

The Sandmännchen, which first aired on November 22, 1959, is the oldest children's TV show in Germany and remains a nightly ritual for many families.
Originally created in East Germany, the Sandmännchen outlasted its West German counterpart following reunification, becoming a symbol of shared cultural heritage.
To mark its 65th anniversary, extended episodes featuring classic segments from the 1970s and 1980s will air on RBB, MDR, and KiKA over the coming Advent weekends.
A special 20-minute short film, 'Die Reise zur Traumsandmühle,' premieres on November 22, featuring narration by actor Florian David Fitz and showcasing the Sandmännchen’s timeless charm.
A documentary titled '65 Jahre Unser Sandmännchen – Eine Reise durch die Jahrzehnte' will explore the evolution of the character and its enduring appeal across generations.