Ways to Celebrate Cultural Diversity During German Week

Between the 17th and the 21st March 2025, The Goethe Institut and German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) along with the German Embassy in London are inviting all schools to celebrate the German Language by holding a German week in your school.

While German Week focuses on the language and culture of Germany, there are plenty of ways to expand the scope to celebrate other cultures. Here are a few ideas for how you can promote cultural diversity:

1. International Food Fair: 
   You could host an international food fair where students can try traditional dishes from Germany and other countries. Foods such as bratwurst, schnitzels, and pretzels could be served alongside Italian pasta, Spanish tapas, or Indian curry. Each food stall could be accompanied by educational materials explaining the origins of the dish and its cultural significance.
   
2. Language Exchange Sessions: German Week is the perfect time to host language exchange sessions. You could pair students learning German with those studying other languages, such as Spanish, French, or Mandarin. This encourages cross-cultural dialogue, where students can practise language skills while discussing the similarities and differences between their cultures.
   
3. Multicultural Art Exhibition: You could set up an art exhibition featuring student-created artwork inspired by different cultures. Students could explore German folklore or historical themes, but they can also create pieces inspired by other countries. This can include photography, painting, or even digital art that reflects global cultural diversity.
   
4. International Music and Dance Performances: Music and dance are universal languages that can convey powerful emotions and stories. You could organise performances or workshops where students can experience and participate in different cultural dances and music. German folk dances or contemporary pop songs could be featured alongside music from other countries, such as African drumming, Bollywood dance, or Latin rhythms.
   
5. Cultural Storytelling and Film Screening: Storytelling is an ancient tradition that reflects the values, struggles, and triumphs of various cultures. You could host storytelling sessions where students share folktales, myths, or personal stories from their heritage. Additionally, screening international films (with subtitles) can offer an insightful look into different cultures, showing the human experience from various perspectives.

Conclusion

German Week 2025 isn’t just about celebrating one country’s language and culture – it’s an opportunity to foster global awareness and respect for diverse traditions. By incorporating multiple cultural elements, schools can create an environment where students not only learn German but also develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the world’s richness. Celebrating cultural diversity isn’t just fun; it is essential for creating a harmonious and connected world where people of all backgrounds feel valued and understood. We can’t wait to see your ideas in action!