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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

School Information

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

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

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.

No Events

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. 

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.

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.

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

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 mit Vanillesauce

 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

Autumn der Herbst
Autumn leaves die Herbstblätter
Damask plums die Zwetschgen
Plums die Pflaume
Pumpkin der Kürbis
Pumpink seed oil Das Kürbiskernöl
Blueberries die Blaubeeren
Raspberies die Himbeeren
Elderberries die Holunderbeeren
Mirabelles or yellow plumbs die Mirabellen  (Marillen is Apricots)

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