German Fathers Day"Vatertag"The German Fathers Day observance is so different from the Canadian and American celebration.Originally, during the Middle Ages, Father's Day was a religious celebration to honour God the Father. It was celebrated on Ascension Day (Christi Himmelfahrt), usually in May. (In 2010, this fell on May 13 (40 days after Easter). In 2011, this will fall on June 2nd.) Later, it did become a day to honour Dad, but soon became a day when men had a 'drinking day' where they toured the bars and pubs getting drunk. (Not a pretty picture!) In some places it still is a day where men gather, either in parks or outings, and beer is consumed in large quantities. In some areas, it is celebrated as a family recognition of Dad. Since Ascension Day is a public holiday in Germany, this provides a day to enjoy a short day-trip. Raised in Canada after immigrating from Germany, we would celebrate Father's Day the Canadian way. Mutti (Mom) would make the foods my Papa (Dad) loved the most. What was that? Rouladen and potato dumplings, of course! Mom would bake Dad's favourite torte for dessert - usually a Blitz Torte. I'm sure she liked that fact that this easy cake was his favourite. So why not celebrate Dad on his special day. We'd do it on the Canadian Father's Day, the third Sunday in June. So, either in May or June, make this a day to recognize Dad for the great guy he is! Tell Dad, "Glücklicher Vatertag." (Happy Father's Day!) Subscribe to our free Quick Fix ezine filled with recipes, updates, etc. Quick German Recipes Home New! CommentsHave your say! Leave a comment in the box below. |
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