VIRTUAL EVENT Susan Neiman directs Berlin’s Einstein Forum, a public think tank for the state of Brandenburg. She has lived in Berlin for most of her adult life but was born and raised in the southern United States. For this book, she spent three years interviewing people in both Germany and the United States. In […]
ONLINE EVENT Learn to bake your own authentic German Apfelkuchen and Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte. In the second installment of “From the GAI Kitchen”, Helga Parnell will share her baking secrets and show the steps to preparing these two iconic German cakes. Apfelkuchen recipe Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte recipe Watch the demonstration on GAI's YouTube channel
Spring brings out the birds, the flowers and the poets in all of us. We'll also bring out the tables and chairs for our May Lawn Café! Choose from an assortment of mouth-watering Kuchen and Torten baked by the GAI Damen. Your ticket includes coffee and one piece of cake. Seating will be distanced on […]
Kleiche meets Apfelkuchen at our International Café as we promote cultural exchange and understanding through music, dance, and baked goods! Iraqi hospitality requires tea and cookies, and a German Kaffeeklatch is not complete without Kuchen. Join us as we bring together Iraqi and German culture in a delicious way. The Germanic-American Institute will host this […]
Sample eight craft beers from Germany, Austria, Belgium, and the Czech Republic. Made by small local breweries and imported by our partner, Old World Beer LLC, these selections are unique and hard to find. You'll get a chance to compare, contrast, and make tasting notes. A meat and cheese platter is included for snacking and […]
Join World Without Genocide for this program that focuses on the Nazi concentration camp Terezin, near Prague, Czechoslovakia, was set up to show the world that the Nazis were not persecuting incarcerated Jews. This was a lie; nearly all Terezin prisoners perished. Dr. Ellen Kennedy, Executive Director, World Without Genocide, will speak about the deception. […]
FallVergnügen: Short courses and special topics Level B1/B2 4 Thursdays beginning September 16 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. | Zoom Wussten Sie, dass es den Begriff Kanzlerkandidat nur in der Zeitung aber nicht im deutschen Wahlrecht gibt, weil der/die Bundeskanzler*in nicht direkt, sondern durch die Mitglieder des Deutschen Bundestags gewählt wird? Das und viel mehr Interessante Informationen über […]
Dr. Steven Miles, Professor Emeritus of Medicine and Bioethics, University of Minnesota Medical School, will speak about physician complicity with torture on an international scale and efforts at holding perpetrators accountable. Randi Markusen, Associate Director of World Without Genocide, will address the complicity of German doctors and the military prosecutions of 23 German physicians and […]
Nicholas Pawlowski is a storyteller, born of an Austrian mother and Polish father. Join us as he tells the story Vom Wunderschimmel (The Wonder Horse), from a collection of old fairy tales edited by the Austrian storyteller Helmut Wittmann. Through interactive dance, drawing and discussion, the story is brought to life. The event is geared toward families […]
Join us for a family-friendly night of film and drinks at Summit Brewing. Visit with friends and enjoy happy hour from 5–7 p.m., then settle in to watch the movie, Der ganz große Traum (Lessons of a Dream), auf Deutsch (with English subtitles). The film features German star Daniel Bruehl as an English teacher who […]
Virtual Event This training will cover three topics of high interest and classroom application to all German teachers, particularly those at the middle and high school levels. This is a virtual event that will take place via Zoom. There is no cost for this training and Goethe-Institut CEUs will be available for participants. Racism in […]
Virtual Event Young people today have many more options for studying in Germany beyond traditional exchange programs. Those interested in studying in Germany can learn about visa requirements, the application process, health insurance, and other logistics. We will also present pathways such as the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange vocational scholarship and new university programs for non-German […]
Looking for a safe and spooky way to celebrate Halloween this year? Join us at the GAI for our Mystery Abend as we explore the Haus and solve a crime! The event is for teens between 12 and 17 years old with the theme of “Swingin’ 20s” in Berlin. Character roles and dialogue prompts will […]
This event is sold out, however, an additional event has been added on Friday, October 29 from 5-9 p.m. To register, please visit Teen Night: Mystery Abend Friday. Looking for a safe and spooky way to celebrate Halloween this year? Join us at the GAI for our Mystery Abend as we explore the Haus and […]
Order by November 10! Decorate your home this year with beautiful spruce top bundles and planters, fragrant wreaths, gorgeous poinsettia plants, and several other items—all while supporting the GAI’s Kinderstube German Immersion Preschool! Orders must be made by November 10 for pick-up after Thanksgiving. Winter greens brochure Pointsettia brochure Order form
Germany’s universities are among the best in the world. From science and technology, to business and the humanities, German universities have a long history of providing the highest-quality education. What many students in the U.S. don’t know, however, is that there are exciting new opportunities to take advantage of this quality education through English-speaking programs […]
Join us for an evening to commemorate 1700 years of German-Jewish lives. The University of St. Thomas presents David Brown from the Leo Baeck Institute (LBI) New York/Berlin, who will talk about the "Shared History Project" at the opening of a related poster exhibition in the Iversen Center for Faith at the University of St. […]
German Ecumenical Christmas Service This annual tradition at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ includes hymns, liturgy, readings, special music, and a short sermon auf Deutsch. The service will be in person at 900 Summit Avenue in St. Paul. Due to COVID-19, all are asked to wear masks. spucconsummit.org
Dr. Beverley Chalmers, internationally-recognized author and scholar, will speak about the abuse and sexual violence perpetrated against women and children during Nazi rule. This program commemorates the 73rd anniversaries of the signing of the UN Genocide Convention on December 9, 1948, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948. The program is […]
Link to song sheets Link to event recording Back by popular demand! Led by Minnesänger Director John Hoffacker from the grand piano at the GAI Haus, we'll gather virtually to sing German holiday favorites. Special guest appearance by Colombian-American soprano, Cristina Czaia.
The GAI is seeking candidates for 2022 Board of Directors. Board candidates should have a passion for the mission and vision of the GAI, as well as the professional skills needed to advance the organization. Board members attend monthly governance meetings and participate in year-round fundraising initiatives. For more information, please email the office at […]
Es war einmal…Once upon a time… Fairy tales are a part of our growing up. In this course, students will read and listen to all sorts of fairy tales and discuss the variety of typical fairy tale characters and tropes. We will dissect why these stories are so important for children and adults alike and […]
Hello Again—Ein Tag Für Immer (Hello Again—A Wedding a Day), is a German rom-com from 2020. Billed as Groundhog Day meets My Best Friend's Wedding, Zazie is trying to keep her best friend from childhood, Philipp, from making the biggest mistake of his life. Written and directed by Maggie Peren, staring Jonas Albrecht, Vilmar Bieri, […]
Storyteller Nicholas Pawlowski will get the whole family into the Fasching spirit during this Story Table event. Join us virtually during this 'time of fools' for a free online telling of Die Schildbürger, a German folktale about foolish ingenuity! This highly interactive online event will take place in a mix of German and English and […]
German Trivia | 6:30–8 PM Bring a friend and test your knowledge of all things German while enjoying delicious European-style beers at Utepils! The team that brought German trivia to Utepils during Oktoberfest is back with new questions and great prizes. Participation is free and open to the public—find us in the taproom and join […]
Switzerland is famous for towering Alps, Swiss cheese, milk chocolate, and the classic story, Heidi. Teens will learn about Swiss culture as they prep and eat cheese fondue and a Swiss dessert, and learn some phrases in Schwiizerdütsch (Swiss German). We'll also be watching the award winning Swiss film, Vitus, about a boy genius who decides […]
Knödel, or dumplings, come in many variations: large, small, raised with yeast or baking powder, made with potatoes, flour, or filled with bread crumbs. Each region of Germany has its special version of this comfort food staple. GAI cooking and baking expert, Helga Parnell, will demonstrate how to make Böhmische and Bayerische Knödel. You can […]
Thank you, Communities for Ukraine The outpouring of support for our Communities for Ukraine fundraiser has been truly incredible! We more than doubled our goal of $20,000 to support Ukrainian refugees living in the community of Zell. The funds are already being put to use to prepare apartments for families, buy appliances, and stock a […]
The FBI’s ‘Real Indiana Jones’ and Recovering a Lost Nazi Diary
Robert Wittman, FBI agent and art crime detective, will describe the global search for the diary of Alfred Rosenberg, ‘the man who made Hitler into Hitler.’ Rosenberg was the main author of Nazi racial theory and campaigns to persecute Jews.
This German language club meets monthly at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency. A variety of topics are presented, and fluency ranges from a working knowledge of German to native speakers. For more information and upcoming […]
Quatsch und die Nasenbärbande (Fiddlesticks) (2014) is about the average village of Bollersville. A town so average, in fact, that it is the perfect place for consumer research. The adults of Bollersville are proud of being average and enjoy trying new products before they hit the market, so much so that they do everything to remain average, including putting all the grandparents into an old folks home to keep their statistical average! The kids take matters into their own hands to avoid the same fate as their parents. Rieke, Max, Lene, Paul, Suse and Ben, team up with a Nasenbär (coati), named Quatsch, to set a world record and prove that their town is anything but average! 82 minutes long. In German with English subtitles. Recommended for ages 4 to 9.
This German language club meets monthly at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency. A variety of topics are presented, and fluency ranges from a working knowledge of German to native speakers. For more information and upcoming […]
We invite our Communities for Ukraine partners and donors to join us for a gathering of support and thanks. Speaking at the event will be Danika Hoffmann, board chair of the GAI, Luda Anastazievsky, Ukrainian American Community Center board member, Mark Ritchie, president of Global Minnesota, and by video message from Chicago, Consul General Wolfgang […]
Join the Bach Society of Minnesota for a Mobile-Mini Concert by tenor Gary Ruschman on the lawn of GAI and experience something unexpected. It’s undeniable that something magical happens when Bach Society performing artists start to play—you won’t want to miss this!
Deutsche Tage (German Days) is back! One of the Germanic-American Institute’s (GAI) longest standing traditions and the oldest ethnic festival in St. Paul.
This German language club meets monthly at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency.
Umweltworkshop: Unsere Welt, unser Leben—wo geht die Reise hin? Environmental Workshop: Our world, our lives—where is the journey heading? Teens will dive into a one-week German immersion experience to explore exciting ideas like the future of transportation, furniture, clothing, or groceries. We'll also explore the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and how they relate to […]
Join Opera on Tap Twin Cities on the GAI lawn* for a sampling of German opera arias and art songs performed by local Twin Cities artists. Opera on Tap is a non-profit organization whose mission is to break down the stereotypes about opera and expose new audiences to opera and classical music by performing in […]
Give us a test drive! This one hour in-person sampler will introduce you to how our language classes work. You'll learn a few handy words and phrases such as "Ein großes Bier, bitte" or "Sprudel mit Geschmack". If you decide to register for fall session, take $10 off your first class and we'll throw in a […]
St. Paul Oktoberfest is back on the beautiful grounds of the Germanic-American Institute. Just like the Munich original, we celebrate in September when the weather is better! This year's performances schedule brings more authentic German and Austrian music and dance to the grounds than ever before to make it a two-day celebration of all things […]
St. Paul Oktoberfest is back on the beautiful grounds of the Germanic-American Institute. Just like the Munich original, we celebrate in September when the weather is better! Oktoberfest is synonymous with beer, and this year, we will have an even larger selection than ever. The iconic Paulaner is imported directly from Munich and our local brewer, […]
Join the Haus & Grounds volunteers every second Saturday, from 9 a.m. to noon, to help maintain our beautiful mansion. Projects range from routine maintenance and repairs to planting spring flowers and raking fall leaves. Join our amazing crew for a work session and stay for lunch a beer!
This German language club meets monthly at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency.
Stop by the GAI table on both Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. Find all the details at Utepils Brewing.
Bring your whole family for a low-stress 5K. Kids also get to enjoy a dedicated fun run before the main event. Earn awesome medals and ribbons with your family as you walk/crawl/roll/run through the finish line, and then enjoy a day at Como Park. Lederhosen are welcome but not required. All proceeds directly support the […]
Spezialagenten: You have 60 minutes to find and neutralize a poisonous substance planted at the GAI by the notorious Dr. J. Save the city of St. Paul and yourselves—auf Deutsche—und macht schnell! Each one-hour Escape Room session will have groups of participants working together to solve the puzzle. Register for a start time between 3 […]
Musical talent often runs in families, and one of history’s most talented set of siblings were the Mendelssohns—Felix and Fanny. Connected by their extraordinary gifts and love for music, they developed a close relationship that endured throughout their lives. Join VocalEssence singers, soloists, and an honor choir comprised of area high school singers as they […]
Germany’s Zeitenwende: Setting New Priorities in Foreign, Security, and Energy Policy Ambassador (ret.) Stefan Schlüter is on a two-week tour of U.S. cities to engage with Americans and discuss current issues in Germany and the state of the transatlantic relationship. During this meeting, Mr. Schlüter will discuss the domestic and international impact of Chancellor Olaf […]
Harvard professor and author, Briana Smith, will present an overview of her new book, Free Berlin: Art, Urban Politics, and Everyday Life. The book tells the unlikely story of how experimental artists flourished behind the Iron Curtain and beyond the art market in the everyday spaces of late Cold War Berlin. Smith will highlight a […]
The Germanic-American Institute is proud to announce a new annual event, the Twin Cities’ first German film festival! This four-day event is produced with support from the DEFA (Deutsche Film Aktiengesellschaft) Film Library at UMass Amherst and the Goethe-Institut Chicago. The inaugural theme, “Reel Women,” highlights German films with women at the center of the narrative—women who […]
Savor a home-cooked German Mittagessen every second Tuesday of the month at Stammtisch Curbside. Pick up your meal-to-go at the GAI between 11:30 a.m. and noon. Reservations are required—please call the office at 651-222-7027 or email office@gaimn.org by 3 p.m. on the Friday before Stammtisch to reserve your meal. $13 includes a meal and dessert.
This month, instead of the usual third Monday of the month meeting, the GAI Damenklub will meet at 9 a.m. on Monday, November 14 to decorate the Haus for the holidays. Everyone is welcome to join us in this festive volunteer opportunity! Contact Henriette Roe at volunteer@gaimn.org or call 651-362-3774 to let us know you […]
6 PM reception/introduction | 7 PM film The University of St. Thomas will screen Margarethe von Trotta’s 2012 biographical drama about Hannah Arendt, a political theorist, author, and Holocaust survivor. The film centers Arendt’ response to the 1961 trial of Adolf Eichmann, which she covered for The New Yorker. Her writing on the trial became controversial […]
11 AM to 4 PM both days Our annual Open Haus returns with a new name, Christmas in Germany! Everyone is welcome to experience some of the traditions of German Christmas—Lebkuchen cookies baked by the GAI Damenklub, Haus brewed Glühwein (mulled wine), and German carols sung by the Minnesänger Chorus and 4Winds early music quartet. […]
Ticket sales are closed. Join us for the return of one of the GAI's most cherished events, our annual Christmas dinner. Tickets are $80 and include a holiday program, a multi-course dinner catered by Lake Elmo Inn, and two beverages. 5–6 p.m.—There will be a 1-hour program in the ballroom including traditional German Christmas music, […]
Reserve your spot for the Christmas edition of Stammtisch lunch. Savor a traditional menu of Sauerbraten, potato dumplings, red cabbage, and German-style green beans. Dessert is Jägertorte, a hazelnut-cranberry tart. For this special Christmas lunch, we offer two options:
Pick up curbside at 11:30 a.m.
Dine at the GAI at 12:15 p.m.
There will be a short Christmas program with readings and songs for those eating at the GAI.
Reservations are required—please call the office at 651-222-7027 or email office@gaimn.org by 3 p.m. on the Friday before Stammtisch to reserve your meal. $15 includes meal and dessert.
Bach Society of Minnesota and Minnesota Chorale will perform Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, Cantatas I, II, IV, and VI, December 16 and 17 in a joyful, long-awaited collaboration. The performances, celebrating the beauty and mystery of the nativity, will be held Friday, December 16 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in St. Paul and Saturday, December […]
Join us at Trylon Cinema for the German film Ivie wie Ivie. Afro-German Ivie, called "Schoko" by her friends, lives in Leipzig and is looking for steady employment as a teacher. One day, Naomi shows up at her door, introducing herself as Ivie's half-sister from Berlin. Ivie learns about the death of their father, who neither […]
Just 1 spot remains. Register today! Friday, January 27 | 6–8:30 PM and Saturday, January 28 | 8:30 AM – 5 PM German speakers at the B1/B2 level are invited to join us for an immersion weekend filled with entertaining language sessions, food and Gemütlichkeit. Learn about Northern Germany’s culture and traditions and participate in […]
Take a “tour” of the German wine regions and learn about what makes them special. In our Intro to German Wines class, you’ll learn about the thirteen Anbaugebiete (wine growing regions) of Germany and sample wines from at least 5 different regions. This first in a series of classes is taught by sommelier Amy Waller, an official […]
Russia and Ukraine: A Year of War Crimes and Genocide Speakers examine the atrocities perpetrated in Ukraine since Russia’s invasion on February 24, 2022 and efforts nationally and internationally to prosecute these crimes. Nina Thueson will share her family’s remarkable story; her grandmother survived the Holodomor, Stalin’s genocide of Ukrainians in 1932 to 1933, and a […]
Du meine Seele, du mein Herz, Du meine Wonn’, o du mein Schmerz… You my soul, you my heart, You my rapture, O you my pain…* Come to the GAI for an afternoon of love songs as Joshua Diaz, Victoria Erickson, Jimmy Finch, and Eryn Tvete serenade you, auf deutsch, with art songs by a […]
Vienna, The City of Music, has given the world such rich treasures! Come celebrate the songs of Franz Schubert and Johannes Brahms, the operettas of Johann Strauss and much more! Join us for this delightful soirée performed by the Minnesänger choir and featured soloists. In the third floor ballroom, not ADA accessible Free, but seats […]
Maultaschen recipe Learn how to make Maultaschen, a traditional Swabian meat-filled dumpling, as part of our new in-person cooking series. Along with hands-on cooking, you’ll also learn about the history and cultural significance of Maultaschen. Sample them in class and bring home enough for a meal! Taught by Katrin Erdmann, the GAI’s language education specialist […]
A Daughter's Search for Her Father's Holocaust Story A World Without Genocide webinar This program examines a personal journey of memorialization and discovery by a daughter whose father, a professional cellist, disclosed only small details of his past during the Holocaust. She embarked on a decades-long search for his history from a slave labor camp […]
In this hands-on workshop, learn about traditional motifs, coloring, and patterns used for centuries throughout Central and Eastern Europe to create vibrantly hued and highly detailed works of art on a simple egg.
Buy garden plants and Strudel to support Kinderstube! Order by April 19! Kinderstube German Immersion Preschool is selling delicious Strudel from Ruhland's Strudel Haus. The enormous Strudel serve 5 to 8 people and come in sweet and savory flavors. Order perennial and annual plants from Bachman's and receive them just in time for a garden planting […]
Ecumenical Good Friday Service in German Join us for this annual Good Friday service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ. The service will be in German, presenting in words and music Die Sieben Letzten Worte Jesu Christi am Kreuz (The Seven Last Words of Christ on the Cross). Fellowship will follow. St. Paul's United Church […]
This coming of age comedy set in late 1970s East Berlin follows 17-year-old Micha as he lives through the absurdity of everyday life on the Sonnenalle (Sun Alley), right next to the strictly patrolled Berlin Wall. He and his friends crave records from the West and strive to be noticed by the neighborhood girls. Sonnenallee […]
German Community Night at the Minnesota Wild Ab aufs Eis! We had so much fun last time, we're doing another German Community Hockey Night. The Wild go head to head with Jets. Be sure to buy tickets through the link below to be part of the festivities. Admission includes a limited edition Wild-German scarf. Wear your […]
Marvel at the grand murals, sculptures, and lavish decorations, and learn about the elaborate conservation work performed to bring the art back to its original appearance. You'll hear stories about the artists, learn about the muralist movement in America, and see how the art, architecture, and overall decorative plan harmonize to make our capitol, which […]
Thomas Brussig, the well-known author of satirical novels about living in the GDR, will be at the GAI for a dual-language book reading event. Brussig’s novel, Am kürzeren Ende der Sonnenallee, a bestseller in Germany, has recently been translated into English by award-winning American author Jonathan Franzen and Dr. Jenny Watson, professor of German at Marquette University. […]
Feed your Pork & Kraut cravings with our annual dinner, again available for curbside pick up. Prepared in-Haus, your meal will include a smoked pork chop, Helga’s secret recipe sauerkraut, sweet and sour green beans, boiled potatoes, Apfelstreuselkuchen, and a can of Warsteiner beer!
“It is a terrible spectacle when the irrational becomes popular.” —German Nobel Prize in Literature laureate Thomas Mann in his famous speech at the Library of Congress in 1943 Thomas Mann The GAI, in partnership with the German Program at Carleton College and Arts at Carleton, presents Thomas Mann: Democracy Will Win!, a national touring […]
Riesling is synonymous with German wine—and for a good reason. This class will examine the wide range of styles of this sometimes misunderstood white wine. From sparkling to dry to off-dry and lusciously sweet varieties, Riesling can do it all! The workshop includes sampling and time for questions for instructor Amy Waller, an official German […]
T. Mychael Rambo The opening of Thomas Mann: Democracy Will Win!, will feature a performance and remarks by Emmy Award winning actor, vocalist, arts educator, and community organizer T. Mychael Rambo. The exhibition will be introduced by Assistant Professor of German at Carleton College Dr. Juliane Schicker, the GAI's Language Education Specialist Dr. Katrin Erdmann, and Carleton’s Puzak […]
For teachers and families with upper middle school to high school students Germany is one of the most popular study abroad destinations. Join us for a virtual information session to find out all about studying in Germany. DAAD representative Hanni Geist will explain what you need to prepare for your international study experience, how to […]
In this virtual presentation, Barbara Müller, Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany, will cover topics of importance to German nationals living in the United States. Learn about birth certificates, naming laws that are different between Germany and the US, marriage certificates, divorce acknowledgments, dual citizenship, and inheritance law questions. The event includes a […]
Deutsche Tage (German Days) is back! One of the Germanic-American Institute’s (GAI) longest standing traditions and the oldest ethnic festival in St. Paul.
The Open Eye Theatre's Driveway Tour comes to the GAI lawn with the puppet show, Tucker's Robot! Tucker is a bright but self-doubting young boy who must go back in time to learn how to face his fears. How do you go back in time? With a time-traveling robot of course! Together, Tucker and his […]
Join the GAI at Allianz Field! Minnesota United soccer club will host 1. FC Kaiserslautern of the 2. Bundesliga for an international friendly at Allianz Field. Pick a side (or cheer for both) and join us in the GAI section in your full German gear! Our discounted tickets ($35 for all seats) are available on […]
Registration is closed. Our day trip to New Ulm, Minnesota is packed with things to see and do. The guided tour begins with a reception and refreshments at the Chamber of Commerce followed by a tour of the town and historic sites by bus. Lunch is at historic Turner Hall, then the Wanda Gag House, […]
Opera on Tap Twin Cities is delighted to return to the GAI lawn for another Opera on Tap auf der Wiese performance. This year the singers will perform arias in German, Italian, and French, and also welcome special guests from Opera on the Lake. You’re in for a treat with this delicious sampling of opera […]
Food will be served from 5 to 7:30 PM | bar is open until 10:30 PM Film begins at 8:45 PM You're invited to our Haus for an evening of grilling and chilling on the GAI lawn. Enjoy music, a German bratwurst from Deutschland Meats, and a cold beer! After the sun sets, watch a German film on our […]
St. Paul Oktoberfest is held annually on the beautiful grounds of the Germanic-American Institute. Just like the Munich original, we celebrate in September when the weather is better! With non-stop entertainment and fun for the whole family, it’s a two-day celebration of German food, beer, and culture! Friday, September 8 | 4–10 PM Saturday, September […]
Gender im Klassenzimmer: Wie gehen wir damit um? Gender in the German language is a complicated topic with several layers. In German, there is what is called “grammatical gender,” which is often confusingly combined with human genders. Nowadays, there are big political debates about gender in society and several German learners identify as trans or […]
KABARET FALL FUNDRAISER Join us at the historic Schmidt Brewery Rathskeller for our inaugural fall fundraiser—Kabaret! We’ll celebrate with a social hour reception and silent auction, a three course German dinner, amazing cabaret performances from some of the Twin Cities’ top theater talent, all in support of the Germanic-American Institute. •••• Thursday, October 12, […]
Just in time for the cool fall weather, sommelier and German Wine Ambassador Amy Waller is back at the GAI to walk you through the exciting (and delicious) world of German red wine grapes. In this tasting, we'll explore the diverse spectrum of German red grapes including Lemberger, Spätburgunder and Trollinger from around the country. […]
Order pick-up: Tuesday, November 28 from 3:30 to 4:30 Prepare for the holidays and support Kinderstube German Immersion School with your order of Bachman's beautiful winter greens, poinsettias, and wreaths. In addition, stock up on sweet and savory treats from Ruhland’s Strudel Haus. The Strudel come frozen and are perfect for holiday entertaining or a […]
Ticket sales now open! Ranging from madcap humor to hard hitting topics, the Twin Cities German Film Festival highlights the German capital city of Berlin. Showing at the The Main Cinema (formerly St. Anthony Main Theatre) in Minneapolis. Concessions at the theater include beer and wine in addition to popcorn and candy. All films except […]
This event has been changed to online-only The GAI is partnering with World Without Genocide and Mount Zion Temple to present the program, "Germany after the Holocaust: From Kristallnacht to Other Genocides." Rabbi Spilker will open the program with kaddish, a memorial prayer for the dead, to honor those who perished in the Holocaust and […]
St. Martin’s Day is commonly celebrated in German-speaking countries in preschools and elementary schools with a charming lantern parade called Laternenlauf. The origins of this tradition include the story of Martin of Tours, a Roman soldier who shared his cloak with a cold beggar on a winter's night. This story offers an opportunity to talk […]
Beer, Boßeln (road bowling), a stick-to-your ribs meal of smoked pork, sausages, cooked kale, and Salzkartoffeln—what else would you rather do on a Saturday afternoon in November? The traditional Kohlfahrt (cabbage tour) is a gathering of friends to celebrate the harvest of kale in Northern Germany. Come learn what it's all about! Your ticket includes […]
Make your own Adventskranz, a decorated table top Advent wreath that is used to count down the Sundays in anticipation of Christmas. Many German, Swiss, and Austrian families sit by their advent wreaths and enjoy Christmas sweets and sing seasonal songs. We'll provide the instruction and all the materials, including fresh greens, decorations in seasonal […]
11 AM to 4 PM both days Toast the season with a beer or warm up with some Glühwein (hot mulled wine), a bratwurst and pretzel, some homemade soup, or a slice of German cake. The Haus will be decorated from the Rathskeller to the ballroom, with music and seasonal goods for sale. Food and drink […]
Spend an hour baking Vanillekipferl, a German Christmas cookie, then learn how to make straw ornaments in this fun activity for parent and child, grandparent and grandchild, or any combination of adults and children (at least 1 adult for every 3 kids, please.) For kids ages 6 and up. Includes all materials, ingredients, hot apple […]
Alternate between baking Linzer Kekse (jam filled almond cookies) and Vanillekipferl (vanilla crescents) in the GAI kitchen and crafting Fröbelsterne and an option to make straw stars. This cozy evening includes Glühwein or hot mulled apple cider and a light snack. Includes all materials and ingredients. $85 member/$95 nonmembers CLICK HERE for our kids & […]
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to enjoy a beer or glass of Glühwein in the GAI Ratskeller. Drop in throughout the evening—we’ll be singing German Christmas songs and enjoying good cheer in cozy surroundings—the definition of Gemütlichkeit! Free, no registration required, beverages and snacks for sale
German Community Advent Service Join the Twin Cities German-language community to celebrate Advent and Christmas at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ. This joyful service includes hymns, readings, and lots of music for the season, all auf Deutsch. The service will be held in-person at 900 Summit Avenue in St. Paul.
Join the Haus & Grounds volunteers every second Saturday, from 9 a.m. to noon, to help maintain our beautiful mansion. Projects range from routine maintenance and repairs to planting spring flowers and raking fall leaves. Join our amazing crew for a work session and stay for lunch a beer! Contact Jim Gruetzman at jgruetzman@gaimn.org for more […]
For levels B1+ and up Friday, January 26 | 6–8:30 PM Saturday, January 27 | 9 AM–5 PM Sie interessieren sich für Berlin, Deutschland und Kultur und möchten wissen, wie sich Berlin kulturell entwickelt hat? Wir laden Lernende auf mittlerem und fortgeschrittenem Sprachniveau zu einem Immersionswochende am GAI ein. Programmbeschreibung: Unsere Teilnehmenden werden Berlin kulturell, […]
Registration is now closed! Get ready for an exhilarating winter experience as the COOP FIS Cross-Country World Cup descends upon Minneapolis in February 2024! This marks a historic moment, as the world's top cross-country skiing athletes gather for the first World Cup race on U.S. soil in two decades. While tickets to this highly anticipated […]
Join the GAI for this curated collection of German short films. The program is a powerful exploration of what it means to be searching for something: searching for the right words, searching for direction, searching for beginnings, searching for what is left of us. The program takes us on a journey that includes stopping points […]
Take a “tour” of the German wine regions and learn about what makes them special. Sommelier & German Wine Ambassador Amy Waller is back at the GAI to be your guide through the exciting (and delicious) world of German wines. In this introduction class, you’ll learn about the thirteen Anbaugebiete (wine-growing regions) of Germany and […]
Join us for a captivating exploration of artistic innovation with the Germanic-American Institute's exclusive group tour of "Multiple Realities: Experimental Art in the Eastern Bloc, 1960s–1980s" at the Walker Art Center. Embracing conceptual or formal innovation and a spirit of adventurousness, Multiple Realities sheds light on ways that artists refused, circumvented, eluded, and subverted official […]
Unlock the secrets of the silver screen at "Babelsberger Lügen" – a thrilling teen murder mystery night. Step into the glamorous world of Babelsberg, the German Hollywood, where the line between fact and fiction blurs. Immerse yourself in an evening of suspense and suspicion as you investigate the untimely demise of a renowned movie director, […]
Join us to write letters to political prisoners in Russia who are detained for protesting the war in Ukraine. This prisoner support strives to build and preserve democracy. Prisoners receiving letters experience better treatment because guards know that the prisoners aren’t alone. This event represents unity across borders, nationalities, civil society, faith institutions, and the […]
Join us for an informal Q&A session where we'll be sharing the exciting details of our upcoming German Wine Tour. Amy Waller, Sommelier of the German Wine Collection, Casey Horn, GAI's Director of Cultural Programming and Ed-Ventures will be on hand to answer questions about the itinerary, the vineyards we'll visit, the wines we'll taste, […]
In this hands-on workshop, learn about traditional motifs, coloring, and patterns used for centuries throughout Central and Eastern Europe to create vibrantly hued and highly detailed works of art on a simple egg. Participants will apply wax using traditional tools, dye eggs in a succession of colors to create multi-colored eggs, and remove wax to […]
Ecumenical Good Friday Service in German Join us for this annual Good Friday service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ. The service will be in German, with fellowship to follow. St. Paul's United Church of Christ 900 Summit Avenue, St. Paul spucconsummit.org
In this hands-on workshop, learn about traditional motifs, coloring, and patterns used for centuries throughout Central and Eastern Europe to create vibrantly hued and highly detailed works of art on a simple egg. Participants will apply wax using traditional tools, dye eggs in a succession of colors to create multi-colored eggs, and remove wax to […]
In partnership with Global Minnesota - join us for a free screening of the Swiss/German Documentary "This Kind of Hope" Released in 2023, the documentary tells the story of diplomat, Andrei Sannikov, who was instrumental in Belarus' nuclear disarmament in the 1990s. Under dictator Lukashenko, he resigned from the civil service and began the fight […]
Apprenticeship instead of a traditional four-year degree? Yes! Increasingly more US students and families are choosing apprenticeships as the debt-free, post secondary education option leading to a rewarding and high paying career. Join us for a free event to learn about innovative local and national/international apprenticeship opportunities for both youth and adults seeking an alternative […]
Join us for an informal Q&A session where we’ll be sharing the exciting details of our upcoming German Wine Tour. Amy Waller, Sommelier of the German Wine Collection, Casey Horn, GAI’s Director of Cultural Programming and Ed-Ventures will be on hand to answer questions about the itinerary, the vineyards we’ll visit, the wines we’ll taste, and […]
Fritzi – A Revolutionary Tale (2019) OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Registration closes April 11. It is 1989 and 12-year-old Fritzi lives in East Germany. When Fritzi’s best friend Sophie goes on holiday Fritzi happily agrees to take care of Sophie’s dog, Sputnik. But then Sophie doesn’t come back: she and her mum have fled across […]
Kinderstube German Immersion Preschool is selling delicious Strudel from Ruhland’s Strudel Haus. The enormous Strudel serve 5 to 10 people and come in sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for holiday entertaining, a quick weeknight meal or Sunday afternoon Kaffee. View Strudel Options Available for purchase in-person only; Sweet Strudels: $18 each / Savory Strudels: $25 […]
Join us once more for a hands-on German culinary workshop where you'll learn the art of crafting perfect pretzels from scratch. Led by expert baker Andrew Lawrence Schiff from Oak&Fig Baking, you'll dive into the fascinating history of pretzel making while mastering the techniques to create your own soft, golden-brown pretzels. Here's what you can […]
Join us once more for a hands-on German culinary workshop where you'll learn the art of crafting perfect pretzels from scratch. Led by expert baker Andrew Lawrence Schiff from Oak&Fig Baking, you'll dive into the fascinating history of pretzel making while mastering the techniques to create your own soft, golden-brown pretzels. Here's what you can […]
In this virtual presentation, Barbara Müller, Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany, will cover topics of importance to German nationals living in the United States. Learn about birth certificates, naming laws that are different between Germany and the US, marriage certificates, divorce acknowledgments, dual citizenship, and inheritance law questions. The event includes a […]
Join us on the grounds of the GAI as we welcome the Bach Society of Minnesota for a free performance auf der Weise. This pop-up performance will feature flutist Julie Johnson. Julie Johnson As a creator and a performer of new music, Julie’s work walks the line between composition and songwriting, art music and popular […]
TICKET SALES HAVE ENDED Join us for the Germanic-American Institute Night at Allianz Field, when the Loons host Sporting Kansas City—complete with cheers, chants, and hopefully lots of goals. TOOOOOOOR! Discounted tickets are available while supplies last. Don't miss out on the energy and atmosphere of an MNUFC matchday, as we cheer on the Loons. […]
The Germanic-American Institute is celebrating 30 years as a leading language and cultural non-profit in Minnesota with our 66th annual Deutsche Tage (German Days). Event hours Saturday, June 8 | 11 AM to 9 PM Sunday, June 9 | 11 AM to 5 PM One of St. Paul's longest-running ethnic festivals, the family-friendly event takes […]
Rainer Breul, head of the Political Department at the German Embassy in Washington, D.C., joins Irene Braam, Executive Director of the Bertelsmann Foundation, the Germanic-American Institute, and Global Minnesota for a talk on the US-German relationship and its impact on the transatlantic political order. Saturday, June 8 is the final day to register! Event Agenda […]
Opera on Tap Twin Cities is delighted to return to the GAI for Rhythms in the North, featuring opera arias by local artists, in a free performance in the GAI Ballroom. This year will also welcome special guests from Out of the Box Opera. Please note: the event will be in the 3rd floor ballroom; not […]
Join the Germanic-American Institute and the American Council on Germany for a Lunch & Learn with Arnd Henze, award-winning TV journalist, theologian, and author, visiting from Germany. He will deliver a lecture entitled “Weaponizing Bonhoeffer: How Church Resistance to Hitler Was Dragged into Today’s Culture War.” Following the lecture, there will be a discussion. Event […]
You're invited to our Haus for an evening of grilling and chilling on the GAI lawn. Enjoy live music, a German bratwurst, and a cold beer! After the sun sets, we’ll be showing the German film Jonja (2023) on our outdoor big screen. Admission is $8, children 13 and under are free but do require […]
The Open Eye Theatre’s Driveway Tour is coming back to the GAI lawn with the puppet show, The Amazing Cow Boat! The show features live music and is fun for kids and adults! Bring chairs and blankets and get comfortable in front of the puppet theater. Get to the GAI before the show and partake […]
Spieleabend is back every month in the GAI Ratskeller and for August, we're bringing back our most popular game yet - CATAN! Ready to embark on an epic adventure of trade, strategy, and conquest? Don’t miss our August Board Game Night featuring the beloved classic, CATAN! Gather your friends, roll the dice, and immerse yourself in […]
The GAI Damenklub (Women’s Club) welcomes all German speaking women who are interested in gathering for Gemütlichkeit and conversation auf Deutsch. The Damen meet at the GAI the third Monday of the month at noon for a potluck lunch and conversation.
This German language club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency. A variety of topics are presented, and fluency ranges from a working knowledge of German to native […]
Join us for our final Summer Kaffee und Kuchen on the GAI porch. Stop by the Haus for coffee and a piece (or two) of authentic German cake or torte. This fundraiser is the best way to start your weekend! Get ready for this year's Oktoberfest with our traditional German attire sale! Discover a collection […]
Twin Cities Volkssports, a local walking group, invites you to join them in a 5 kilometer Volksmarsch (group walk) to the State Capital. Meet at the GAI Haus at 9:45 a.m.; walk beings at 10 a.m. There is no cost, however please register with the GAI office by emailing office@gaimn.org, so that Twin Cities Volkssport […]
Give us a test drive! This one hour in-person sampler will introduce you to how our language classes work. You’ll learn a few handy words and phrases such as “Ein großes Bier, bitte” or “Sprudel mit Geschmack“. For joining us, you'll receive a coupon for a free beer (or other beverage) at St. Paul Oktoberfest. […]
Savor a home-cooked German Mittagessen every second Tuesday of the month at Stammtisch Curbside. Pick up your meal-to-go at the GAI between 11:30 a.m. and noon. Reservations are required—please call the office at 651-222-7027 or email office@gaimn.org by 3 p.m. on the Wednesday before Stammtisch to reserve your meal. $14 includes a meal and dessert. Das Menü: Paprika Schnitzel, noodles, […]
Event hours Friday, September 13 | 4 to 10 PM Saturday, September 14 | 10 AM to 10 PM St. Paul Oktoberfest is held annually on the beautiful grounds of the Germanic-American Institute. Just like the Munich original, we celebrate in September when the weather is better! As the GAI's largest fundraiser, proceeds from the […]