When did the European Heritage Days in Germany start?
About European Heritage Days in Germany Holiday
The European Heritage Days is just around the corner! This year marks 25 years since Germany adopted the celebration of this international event, and there is no better way to enjoy the cultural heritage of the country than through this special holiday.
Starting on 10 September, the European Heritage Days offer the perfect opportunity to learn about Germany's long and diverse history. Through guided tours and open-air exhibitions visitors can get up close to some of the nation's most impressive and culturally-important monuments and sites such as Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag Building, and Neuschwanstein Castle. It's truly a chance to experience Germany in a way that just can't be matched.
In addition, the European Heritage Days offer the perfect opportunity for families to explore Germany together. With plenty of educational activities, interactive displays, and hands-on experiences, this celebration of European heritage is sure to provide lasting memories of Germany for all who attend.
European Heritage Days in Germany
History and Origin
European Heritage Days (EHD) is an annual celebration of European heritage, bringing together citizens from all parts of the continent. The tradition of EHD began in 1990 at a meeting of the Council of Europe in Spain. At this meeting, the European nations decided to commit to a common heritage so that the citizens of Europe could be united in their shared history. The mission of EHD is to promote the shared cultural history of Europe and provide a platform for people to learn about and understand the history of different European cultures better.
The observance of EHD in Germany began in 1997 as part of the German–French Declaration on European Heritage. This initiative proposed for the establishment of EHD as an annual celebration in all of the countries participating in the declaration. Since then, EHD has become an important part of the social and cultural calendar in Germany. The EHD is celebrated on the second weekend of September, in recognition of the closure of the “Heritage Year”, a year in which countries commemorate the important events in their history.
In 2021, the German government proposed that EHD in Germany focus on the themes of globalisation and digitalisation, reflecting the importance these concepts have taken on in modern times. The initiative was welcomed by many peoples as a way to show how Europe has adapted to the changing world and still maintained its cultural heritage.
Significance and Meaning
European Heritage Days play an important role in preserving Europe’s rich cultural history, and its traditions and customs. It serves to remind us that despite our numerous differences, Europe is still united by its shared history. During EHD, European citizens of all backgrounds come together to remember and honour the heritage of the continent, and to celebrate the unique cultural identities that come with it.
The celebration of EHD in Germany also serves to celebrate the unification of Germany following the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. This historic event marked an important moment in European history and the celebration of EHD in Germany serves as a reminder of this momentous occasion.
Traditions and Celebrations
European Heritage Days in Germany is celebrated in many parts of the country, from the cosmopolitan cities of Berlin, Hamburg and Munich to rural settings of the south and east. EHD takes many different forms, depending on each individual’s interpretation and understanding of heritage.
In many parts of Germany, European Heritage Days is celebrated with the opening of state monuments, buildings, historic sites, and museums to the public for free. It is also customary to hold street festivals, outdoor cultural events, and historical re-enactments. Many peoples use EHD as an opportunity to take part in cultural exchanges, such as folk music concerts, art competitions, and culinary festivals. In some parts of Germany, EHD is celebrated with special religious services and pilgrimages to religious sites.
Geographical Spread
European Heritage Days in Germany is widely celebrated in all of the German states. In the federal capital of Berlin, celebrations often feature cultural performances from numerous countries, such as the Tango Berlin festival which is held annually. Many historic sites are also opened up to visitors, including the Brandenburg Gate, which was built in 1791 and sits at the centre of the city.
In Bavaria, a large number of events take place, with folk music, processions, and traditional dancing. There are also several small festivals across the state, such as the Leipzig Heritage Festival and the Oberammergau Passion Play.
In the northeast of Germany, EHD is celebrated in a variety of ways, from drum competitions in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern to traditional performances in Brandenburg. Further south, along the Rhine river, EHD is celebrated with special festivals such as the Rhineland Carnival and the St. John’s Day processions.
Modern Day Observations
The celebration of European Heritage Days in Germany has changed and evolved over time. In recent years, the focus has shifted from traditional culture to a more contemporary approach.
Today, EHD is a popular event where people come together to honor the beauty and diversity of Europe. It is also an opportunity for many different cultures to meet and interact with one another. Events celebrating modern-day concepts, such as sustainability and international cooperation, can be found as part of EHD.
Interesting Facts or Trivia
•European Heritage Days is celebrated annually in many European countries, except in Switzerland, where it is a biennial event.
•The first ever European Heritage Days was celebrated in France in 1991.
•In Germany, EHD is sometimes referred to as “Europäischer Kulturtag”, which translates as “European Cultural Day”.
•Each year, the European Heritage Days are celebrated under a different theme, chosen by the European Heritage Days Steering Committee.
•In 2018, over 13 million people participated in European Heritage Days in Germany.
•The German city of Neustadt an der Weinstrasse celebrates EHD with “Neustadt Week”, a week during which the city organizes cultural and recreational events.
Holiday Wishes
•Have a wonderful day celebrating European Heritage!
•Let us come together and celebrate the diversity of European cultures.
•Make the most of this day and enjoy learning about European history!
•Celebrate the cultures that make Europe special.
•Welcome in a new year of European Heritage Days!
Holiday Messages
•On European Heritage Days, let us remember the rich culture and traditions of Europe.
•Let us be proud of the shared values and ideals of European culture.
•Today, let us celebrate the strengths and weaknesses of Europe and its citizens.
•Let us recognize the beauty and importance of Europe’s diverse cultural heritage.
•Today, let us strive to promote a better understanding of our common European heritage.
Holiday Quotes
• “Unity in diversity is the most valuable asset of our times.” — Pope John Paul II
•“The heritage of the past is the seed that brings forth the harvest of the future.”–Herbert Mills
• “Heritage is inherited from past generations.” — Merriam-Webster Dictionary
•“Preserving European heritage is key to the continent’s future.” – Angel Merkel
•“The future is in the hands of those who understand the past.” — Confucius
Other Popular Holiday Info
European Heritage Days is a celebration that is open to everyone, no matter their cultural background. While the main goal of EHD is to commemorate the shared history of Europe, it is also an opportunity for different cultures to come together and learn more about one another.
Throughout the day, various educational and interactive activities are held to promote understanding and appreciation for different cultures. In addition to the events held throughout the country, many cities, towns, and villages also organize meetings, discussions, and debates on the importance of diversity and the protection of European heritage.
Additionally, European Heritage Days is an important opportunity for raising awareness about the importance and necessity of protecting Europe’s cultural and historical heritage. Conservation initiatives, such as those that promote the use of sustainable materials and energy saving measures, can be seen throughout the day’s festivities.
European Heritage Days is the perfect opportunity to embrace the cultural diversity of the continent and celebrate Europe’s rich history and heritage. This year, on September 10th, let us come together and honour the European heritage!
European Heritage Days in Germany Also Called
European Heritage Days in Germany, or Europäischer Tag des Erbes in Deutschland, is a public holiday dedicated to the celebration and preservation of the cultural heritage of Germany. It is celebrated on the second Sunday every September.
FUN FACT:
In year 1977, European Heritage Days in Germany is celebrated on September 14 for the first time.HOLIDAY CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, please click here to contact us!
In a troubled world, Christians strive to put aside earthly worries on Christmas Eve
FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Christians around the world were striving on Christmas Eve to put aside the worries and fears of an unsettled, war-torn world as they prepared to celebrate the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. Believers in Syria gathered Sunday in a country still suffering from the aftermath of a long civil war and suffocating economic blockade. Despite festive lights and Christmas decorations adorning houses and shopfronts in the capital Damascus, events in Gaza and ongoing battles in parts of the country have left the holiday atmosphere subdued. In Yabroud, a city north of Damascus, worshippers gathered in the St. Constantine and Helen Cathedral to enjoy Christmas carols sung by the Joy Choir from Damascus. “Everyone should try, with…
In a troubled world, Christians strive to put aside earthly worries on Christmas Eve
FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Christians around the world were striving on Christmas Eve to put aside the worries and fears of an unsettled, war-torn world as they prepared to celebrate the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. Believers in Syria gathered Sunday in a country still suffering from the aftermath of a long civil war and suffocating economic blockade. Despite festive lights and Christmas decorations adorning houses and shopfronts in the capital Damascus, events in Gaza and ongoing battles in parts of the country have left the holiday atmosphere subdued. In Yabroud, a city north of Damascus, worshippers gathered in the St. Constantine and Helen Cathedral to enjoy Christmas carols sung by the Joy Choir from Damascus. “Everyone should try, with…
World News | In a Troubled World, Christians Strive to Put Aside Earthly Worries on Christmas Eve | LatestLY
Frankfurt, Dec 25 (AP) Christians around the world were striving on Christmas Eve to put aside the worries and fears of an unsettled, war-torn world as they prepared to celebrate the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. Before leading Sunday Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, Cardinal Timothy Dolan reminded congregants to keep war-torn parts of the Middle East in their Christmas prayers. Also Read | France: Over 700 Airbus Atlantic Staff Sick After Christmas Dinner, Cause of Mass Food Poisoning Still Unclear. “As we anticipate Christmas, our hearts always go to the holy land,” he said, referring to parts of Israel and the Palestinian territories. “The holy land is under a cloud, the holy land is suffering,…