Brandenburg plays: A day full of board game fun for young and old!
The first match day “Brandenburg plays” took place on July 24th, 2025 at the Old Town Market in Brandenburg an der Havel. Over 150 visitors experienced a day full of classic and new board games, sponsored by social institutions. The goal of the event was to reduce screen time and strengthen community through play.

Brandenburg plays: A day full of board game fun for young and old!
The Old Town Market in Brandenburg an der Havel was transformed into a true paradise for gaming enthusiasts of all ages on July 24, 2025, when the event under the motto “Brandenburg is playing” attracted numerous visitors at the start of the holiday. Organized by a number of social institutions, including the children's support association WIR e.V. and VHS Bildungswerk GmbH, the day offered a wide range of board and board games without a screen, in the spirit of a positive approach to the topic of media consumption. How stadt-brandenburg.de Reportedly, over 150 visitors gathered in the first three hours to try out various games, while the only rule of the game was: cell phones remained in their pockets.
The focus was clearly on fun, as emphasized by Alderman Alexandra Adel, who took part in the event. Lightness and joy were the main themes of the day, while the good weather created a successful atmosphere. The organizers sent a clear message against excessive media consumption and emphasized the importance that board games can play for social interaction and the creative development of participants.
Analogue games in focus
In a world increasingly dominated by digital media, the importance of analog games is often neglected. This is discussed in an article from the Merz magazine clear, which points to the media educational discourse that often places digital games in the foreground. The board game culture in Germany is not only age heterogeneous, but also an exciting field of research that has a lasting influence on the areas of media use and education.
Interest in board games surged during the coronavirus pandemic as many came to appreciate the social aspects and challenges they offer. The gaming experience that comes from playing cards, dice and other traditional games brings people together, promotes exchange and reflects a tradition that goes back more than 5,000 years, as in Cultural asset game is outlined. It is also pointed out here that the term “analog” does not adequately capture the variety and fun of these games.
Board games like “Senet,” which was found in Tutankhamun’s tomb, show how deeply rooted this culture is in humanity. The fascination with board games is not new, but has developed over thousands of years. Even today, these games still offer a valuable opportunity to spend time together and make new friends, as became clear on game day.
The positive response to the event suggests that it will be continued in 2026. The event received support from local providers such as Kaufland am Beetzsee-Center and REWE Stefanie Voigt, who are interested in the joint project. So one can hope that the success of the first day of play will not only be repeated, but also further promoted.