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November

As we move into the month of November in Germany, we are welcomed by the chilly winds of autumn, the picturesque landscapes with trees shedding their last leaves, and the upcoming festive season that promises to be a time of warmth and joy. With the days getting shorter and the nights longer, this is the perfect time to bundle up and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or glühwein (mulled wine) as you take in the beauty of the season.
Germany is known for its charming Christmas markets, which are set up in almost every town, with stalls selling handmade crafts, delicious treats, and warm drinks. Whether you prefer the bustling cities or the quaint villages, there is something for everyone in this magical season.
So, embrace the season and enjoy the wonders that November in Germany has to offer!

SeasonAutumn
TimeCentral European Time (CET), Wintertime – One hour behind South Africa.
Weather

The temperatures average between 2.6°C and 7 °C. It could be warmer or colder, depending on the location. The average daily sunshine is between three and four hours.

Plan your month

everything you need to know

Festivals

Looking for a way to brighten up the dark and cold winter nights? Why not try visiting some of the beautiful Christmas gardens that are lit up with festive lights and decorations? Take a stroll through the twinkling lights and see the Christmas trees, snowflakes, and reindeer come to life with bright colors and flashing patterns. You can soak in the festive atmosphere and indulge in some hot cocoa or mulled wine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a fun activity for the whole family, Christmas gardens offer a unique and unforgettable experience that will brighten up your winter season.

By the end of November, Germany’s enchanting Christmas markets begin to open, filling town squares with festive lights, the scent of spiced mulled wine, and the sounds of holiday cheer. From handcrafted ornaments to warm roasted nuts, these markets offer a magical experience that brings both locals and visitors together in the heart of the season.

Christmas Markets

Visiting Christmas markets in Germany is a delightful way of celebrating the festive season. The heavy scent of sweets, fried sausage and warm wine welcome

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Holidays

HolidayDateInformationStates
Public Holidays
Allerheiligen (All Saints Day)01 NovemberAllerheiligen (All Saints Day)BW, BY, NW, RP, SL
Buß-und Bettag (Repentance Day)20 NovemberBuß-und Bettag (Repentance Day)Sachsen
Observations
Allerseelen02 NovemberAll
Kristallnacht (Night of Broken Glass)09 NovemberKristallnachtAll
Fall of the Berlin Wall09 NovemberAll
Martinstag11 NovemberSt Martin' DayAll
Volkstrauertag17 NovemberNational day of mourningAll
Totensonntag 24 NovemberTotensonntagAll
1. Advent01 DecemberFirst Advent SundayAll
School Holidays and Terms
Autumn HolidaysShool Holidays 2024

Events listed on our website

Jeremy Loops Europe Tour 2025

11/02/2025 – 22/02/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 11:45 pm – With his dynamic and electrifying live performances and a modern blend of folk and pop,  South African artist Jeremy Loops has made a name for himself globally in recent years. Boasting over 300 million streams and having toured with major acts like Twenty-One Pilots and Milky Chance, his success speaks for itself. He’s also collaborated […]

Prime Circle – The World We Know Tour 2025

11/02/2025 – 20/02/2025 @ 12:00 am – Prime Circle – The world as we know Tour Tickets available on Eventim, and other Ticket platforms Disclaimer: The events listed on this website are for informational purposes only. We do not organize, host, or sell tickets for any of these events. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the event details at […]

Kevin Fraser in Frankfurt 15 Feb 2025

15/02/2025 @ 8:00 pm – Join South African comedian Kevin Fraser for his #Imagination2025 comedy tour, a galactic journey blending classic humour with futuristic satire and local flavour. In a star-lit world of wild imagination, Kevin hilariously tackles life’s everyday quirks, from African roots to global absurdities. With impersonations, sharp wit, and a sanctuary of laughter, this tour promises a […]

Afrikaans is lekker – Amsterdam May 2025

24/05/2025 @ 12:00 am – AFRIKAANSE POPSTER-VIERTAL BINNEKORT IN AMSTERDAM Kersfees kom vanjaar vroeg vir Nederlandse aanhangers van die Afrikaanse supersterre Ricus Nel, Brendan Peyper, Elandré en Liza Nel! Dié bekende viertal se Afrikaans is Lekker-konsert sal vir SLEGS EEN AAND op Saterdag 24 Mei 2025 by die Theater Amsterdam in Nederland te sien wees. Die GROOTSTE Afrikaanse Sokkie After […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

11/09/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

11/12/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

13/11/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

09/10/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

14/08/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

10/07/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

12/06/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany – May

08/05/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: May: Summer Fun in Germany Discuss festivals, outdoor activities, and traditions to look forward to. June: Managing Finances Tips on taxes, saving money, and understanding German banking. July: Raising Kids in Germany Parenting tips, navigating German schools, and bilingual education. August: Overcoming Homesickness Share coping strategies and ways to stay connected to […]

Some foods and drinks to try

01.

Venison

Autumn and early winter are the prime seasons for wild game, best enjoyed with hearty sides like red cabbage and knödel.

02.

Hearty Food

To warm up on a chilly day, try hearty German dishes like Rouladen (stuffed beef rolls), Linseneintopf (lentil stew), or Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup). These comforting meals are packed with rich flavors, making them perfect for cozying up in the colder months.

03.

Schlachtplatte

“Schlachtplatte,” or “Slaughter Plate,” is a traditional German dish featuring a hearty assortment of meats, typically including blood sausage, liver sausage, Kassler (smoked pork), or boiled pork belly. It’s usually served with tangy sauerkraut and boiled potatoes, making it a warming, rustic meal perfect for cooler weather.

If you want to warm up, try some hearty food like Rouladen, Linseneintopf or Kartoffelsuppe

03.

Pumpkins

In autumn, shops and farm stalls overflow with various squashes and pumpkins, inviting you to enjoy the season’s bounty. 
Try a hearty pumpkin soup drizzled with pumpkin seed oil, or indulge in a Stuffed Hokkaido Pumpkin for a cosy, flavorful meal

04.

Zwiebelkuchen

Onion tart pairs deliciously with Federweißer, the young, slightly fizzy wine that’s a seasonal favorite in autumn.

05.

Federweißer

Federweißer or new wine is typically available from late summer through October, with some bottles lingering into November. This lightly fermented wine perfectly complements the cozy flavors of autumn, making it a beloved seasonal treat.

Fruit and Veggies in Season

Vocabulary

Autumn der Herbst
Autumn leaves die Herbstblätter
Parsnips die Pastinaken
Savoy cabbage der Wirsing
Pumpkin der Kürbis
Pumpink seed oil Das Kürbiskernöl
Christmas Market der Weihnachtsmarkt
Advent time Die Adventszeit
Venison  Das Wild, Das Hirschfleisch, das Reh

Sources

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