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South Africans in Germany

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    September in Germany is a truly enchanting time of year. As the leaves begin to transform into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, and the air takes on a crisp, refreshing quality, it’s a gentle reminder that summer is giving way to autumn. This transition brings a host of new activities to enjoy, from apple picking and pumpkin carving to cosy evenings spent with loved ones. And, of course, the arrival of autumn means a delightful array of seasonal foods, including warm soups, hearty stews, and comforting baked goods.

    The mornings now carry a slight chill, signaling the shift in temperatures, yet the days remain pleasantly warm, perfect for outdoor adventures. Whether it’s hiking through picturesque landscapes, biking along scenic trails, or enjoying a leisurely picnic, this is an ideal season to embrace the beauty of nature.

    September also offers an excellent opportunity to explore the stunning Mediterranean countries. The weather remains warm and inviting, a welcome respite from the intense heat of summer. With the summer crowds having returned home, you can relish the tranquillity of the beaches and other attractions, making it a perfect time for a serene getaway.

    Time Zone

    Central European Time (CET) – In September, Germany is on the same time as South Africa

    Season

    Autumn.

    The gentle transition from summer to autumn. Days gradually shorten, the air carries a crispness, and the first hints of autumnal colours begin to appear in parks and forests. Temperatures are mild, making it ideal for exploring cities, strolling through vineyards, and enjoying outdoor cafés before the chill of late autumn sets in. 

    Weather

    September in Germany brings mild and pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 15°C and 22°C, cooling off in the evenings. Rainfall is moderate, and the skies can shift between sunny days and overcast stretches, creating a fresh, crisp atmosphere

    Back to school

    Understanding the German School System

    Understanding the German School System The German school system is quite unique and stands apart from the South African model in several key ways. With its early career streaming,

    Study in Germany

    Studying in Germany Germany’s higher education landscape is renowned for its academic excellence and affordability. Whether you’re pursuing a degree at a Universität, a Fachhochschule (University of Applied Sciences),

    Fun Activities

    Annual Observations

    Month Event Town Link
    20/09/2026 World Children’s Day (Weltkindertag) View Event
    22/09/2026 Start of Autumn (Herbstanfang – astronomical) View Event

    Public Holidays

    No Events

    Festivals and events

    The most famous festival in Germany, the Oktoberfest in Munich. Another great beer fest to visit is the Cannstatter Volksfest in Stuttgart. Similar festivals will be celebrated all over Germany, and you can search for Oktoberfest and your town to find one close to you.
    Autumn is also a time for wine festivals.
    If you love Pumpkins, head out to Ludwigsburg for the biggest Pumpkin festival in the world.
    Farmers throughout the region will soon begin their harvest, a time marked by the traditional “Erntedankfest,” or harvest festival. This celebration, often held on the last Sunday of September or the first Sunday of October, includes church services and processions, offering thanks for the bounty of the season.

    Events listed on our Website

    The Biggest Saffa Gathering in Amsterdam 5 September

    If you’ve been looking for an excuse to spend a day surrounded by fellow South Africans, this is it! Join us for what promises to be one of the biggest South African gatherings in the Netherlands. Whether you’ve been living in Europe for years, recently arrived, or are simply visiting, everyone is welcome. Expect a relaxed South African atmosphere with: 🌭 Boerewors rolls 🥩 Delicious biltong 🍺 Ice-cold brewskies 🏉 Rugby on the big screens (if fixtures allow) 🎶 Great music 🇿🇦 Plenty of familiar accents and even better conversations Bring your friends, your family, and your “chinas” for

    Bok van Blerk & Appel live in Brugge 31 October

    Two of South Africa’s most loved Afrikaans artists are coming to Brugge for an unforgettable evening of music, nostalgia and great company. Join Bok van Blerk and Appel as they perform their biggest hits in an intimate live concert that promises plenty of sing-along moments, laughter and true South African spirit. Whether you’ve been a fan for years or simply enjoy great live entertainment, this is your chance to experience two exceptional performers on one stage while connecting with fellow South Africans and friends from across Europe. 📢 Important Information South Africans in Germany is sharing this event on

    Bok van Blerk & Appel live in Veenendaal NL 30 October

    Trots Afrikaans is terug in Nederland — en dié keer nóg groter! Ná die ongelooflike sukses van die 2024-uitgawe keer hierdie gewilde Afrikaanse konsertervaring op 30 Oktober 2026 terug na De Basiliek in Veenendaal vir ‘n onvergeetlike aand vol musiek, dans en eg Suid-Afrikaanse gees. Hierdie jaar se kunstenaarslyn bring drie van Suid-Afrika se gewildste name saam op een verhoog: die legendariese Bok van Blerk, die treffer-belaaide Appel, en die energieke Dodo. Vir Appel en Dodo is dit boonop hul heel eerste optredes ooit in Nederland — iets waarna Afrikaanse musiekaanhangers lank uitgesien het. Dodo kom spesiaal na Nederland

    Qadasi & Maqhinga at Howzit Bielefeld

    Hailing from the heart of Zululand in South Africa, David “Qadasi” Jenkins and Maqhinga Radebe are a South African Music Award (SAMA)-winning duo dedicated to preserving the rich traditions of Maskandi music while introducing its powerful sound to audiences around the world. Blending authentic Zulu music with Western folk influences, they have earned widespread acclaim for their musicianship, authenticity, and captivating live performances. Since joining forces in 2010, Qadasi & Maqhinga have toured extensively throughout South Africa, the UK, Europe, and Asia, establishing themselves as leading ambassadors of contemporary Maskandi music.   Instagram post Important Disclaimer Please note: We

    South African Heritage Braai Day 2026 – Berlin

    The South African Embassy in Berlin warmly invites South Africans and friends of South Africa to join us for a day of food, music, great company and lekker vibes during our Heritage Day celebration at the Embassy. Bring your meat to braai and your favourite South African dishes – we’ll provide the tables for the dishes, the fire, the atmosphere and a live DJ set! Reservations on Eventbrite  There is a password for the event – please get the password in our WhatsApp community or send an email to admin@southafricansingermany.de The Embassy cannot provide sufficient refrigerator space or cutlery

    Foods and drinks to try

    Berries

    Make your own delicious Rote Grütze, a traditional German berry compote, and serve it with a generous scoop of creamy ice cream, decadent Milchreis, or silky pudding to enhance the flavours. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests. If you’re looking for more culinary inspiration, you can find some additional mouth-watering recipes here. 

    Pumpkins

    During the autumn season, the markets and farms are vibrant with an abundant variety of squashes and pumpkins waiting to be discovered and savoured. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the many shapes and sizes of these delicious vegetables. Among the popular varieties you’ll find are butternut, acorn, spaghetti, kabocha, and sugar pumpkins, each offering its own unique taste and culinary possibilities.

    More information about the varieties of squashes and pumpkins.
    Try a hearty pumpkin soup with pumpkin seed oil or Stuffed Hokkaido Pumpkin.

    Hearty Food

    When the weather outside is chilly and cold, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm and hearty meal! Why not try some German classics like Rouladen, Linseneintopf or Kartoffelsuppe? Rouladen is a delicious beef dish that is stuffed with bacon, onions and pickles, while Linseneintopf is a hearty lentil soup that is both filling and nutritious. And if you’re in the mood for something more potato-based, you can’t go wrong with a steaming bowl of Kartoffelsuppe.

    Beer

    For Oktoberfest, Munich’s breweries craft a special Festbier to mark the occasion. Traditionally, this was a Märzen bier, but since 1970, it has been replaced by a lighter, more refreshing lager that’s perfect for the festivities.

    The difference between Festbier and Märzen. More information about Marzën bier

    Zwetschgen

    A true taste of the German summer, Zwetschgen — the slender, dusky cousins of regular plums — are the star of many a beloved July dessert. Their tangy-sweet flavour shines brightest in the iconic Zwetschgenkuchen or Zwetschgendatschi, sold in bakeries all over the country. Best enjoyed with a generous swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Can’t find Zwetschgen? Mirabellen make a charming stand-in.

    Rote Grütze

    Rote Grütze

     A classic German summer dessert that’s as vibrant in colour as it is in flavour. Originally from Northern Germany, this jewel-toned dish is made from a mix of red berries—typically raspberries, strawberries, red currants, and cherries—gently simmered with sugar and thickened with a bit of cornstarch or sago. Served chilled, it’s often accompanied by a generous drizzle of vanilla sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Rote Grütze strikes that perfect balance between tart and sweet

    Fruit and veggies in season

    Vocabulary

    English German
    Autumn der Herbst
    Autumn leaves die Herbstblätter
    Autumn colours die Herbstfarben
    Cooler weather kühleres Wetter
    Rain der Regen
    Rainy regnerisch
    Jacket die Jacke
    Scarf der Schal
    Layering / layers das Zwiebelprinzip / die Schichten
    Harvest die Ernte
    Harvest season die Erntezeit
    Damson plums die Zwetschgen
    Plum die Pflaume
    Pumpkin der Kürbis
    Pumpkin seed oil das Kürbiskernöl
    Blueberries die Blaubeeren
    Raspberries die Himbeeren
    Elderberries die Holunderbeeren
    Mirabelles / yellow plums die Mirabellen
    Apples die Äpfel
    Pears die Birnen
    Grapes die Trauben
    Mushrooms die Pilze
    Chestnuts die Kastanien
    Acorns die Eicheln
    Fog / mist der Nebel
    Wind der Wind
    Windy windig
    Cozy gemütlich
    Crisp / chilly frisch / kühl

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