Andersen Festival

From 4 to 7 June 2026, the town of Sestri Levante will host the 29th edition of the Andersen Festival, one of Italy’s most important cultural events dedicated to the world of fairy tales, imagination and childhood.

For four days, the Ligurian town is transformed into a magical and surprising place, brought to life by international artists, theatre shows, music, storytelling and street performances. The squares, narrow streets and the picturesque Baia delle Favole become the stage for a festival capable of engaging adults and children alike in a unique atmosphere.

The festival is closely linked to the renowned Andersen – Baia delle Favole Prize, one of the longest-running and most prestigious literary competitions, dedicated to unpublished fairy tales. Inspired by the Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen, who was enchanted by Sestri Levante during one of his travels, the prize represents the narrative heart of the event and culminates in the awards ceremony during the festival.

Under the artistic direction of Duccio Forzano, the programme continues in 2026 to chart a creative course that this year focuses on the theme of the ‘Present’, understood as the ability to live fully in the moment, to listen, to observe and to value every story told.

The programme offers a packed calendar of events: shows for all ages, workshops, talks, music and storytelling sessions, using a language that speaks to all generations. Fairy tales thus become a tool for reflecting on time, reality and the imagination.

Organised by the Municipality of Sestri Levante with the support of local and regional cultural organisations, the Andersen Festival is now a key event on the Italian cultural scene, bringing together art, literature and performance in one of Liguria’s most enchanting settings.

An event where the town becomes a fairy tale and every corner transforms into a story to be experienced.