Unveiling the Dance of the Masks: A Journey into Rottweil’s Enchanting Fasnacht Tradition

In the heart of Europe, amidst the picturesque landscapes of Swabia, Germany, lies the charming town of Rottweil. Every February, Rottweil transforms into a stage for a captivating spectacle – the Tanz der Masken, also known as the Dance of the Masks.

This traditional Swabian festival, steeped in history and vibrant folklore, is a mesmerizing display of elaborately carved wooden masks, some dating back centuries.

This article delves into the enchanting world of Rottweil’s Tanz der Masken, exploring the types and themes of masks used, the origins of the festival, and the possibility of experiencing similar celebrations in the US. We’ll also explore the connection between Rottweil and the Rottweiler dog breed, and delve into the geographical location of Swabia.

A Symphony of Wood and Wonder: Unveiling the Masks of the Tanz der Masken

The heart of the Tanz der Masken lies in its remarkable collection of masks. These aren’t your average Halloween masks.

These intricately hand-carved wooden masterpieces, some as tall as the wearer, are true works of art, passed down through generations and meticulously cared for.

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Exploring the Heartfelt Traditions of German Valentine’s Day

Forget the pressure of red roses and dozen boxes of chocolates! Valentine’s Day in Germany offers a unique blend of tradition and romance, with a focus on experiences over extravagance.

While couples certainly enjoy celebrating their love, it’s not a day for grand gestures, but rather a chance to cherish your connection.

A Love Story with a Different Dialect

Valentine’s Day in the United States is a full-blown commercial affair, with children exchanging cards in classrooms and couples splurging on expensive gifts. In Germany, it’s a more intimate affair. Children don’t participate in the festivities, and adults in romantic relationships take center stage. This creates a more personal and focused celebration on your special someone.

A Touch of Germany: Geschenkideen (Gift Ideas)

So, how can you incorporate a touch of Germany into your Valentine’s Day celebration? Here are some ideas:

  • Schweinerei der Liebe (Pigs of Love): Pigs symbolize luck and lust in German culture. Surprise your loved one with a playful pig figurine, a box of marzipan pigs, or a funny card featuring a cartoon pig.
  • Lebkuchenherzen (Gingerbread Hearts): These beautifully decorated heart-shaped cookies, often inscribed with romantic messages like “Ich liebe dich” (I love you), are a delicious and traditional Valentine’s Day treat in Germany. You can find them online or try your hand at baking your own!
  • Blumen sagen viel (Flowers Speak Volumes): While flowers are always appreciated, consider some typically German blooms. Red roses are still popular, but why not surprise your sweetheart with a bouquet of lilies (reinheit – purity) or Edelweiss (ewige Liebe – eternal love)?

Süße Verführungen (Sweet Seductions):

Chocolates are a universal symbol of love, but why not add a German twist? Look for chocolates flavored with liqueurs like Kirschwasser (cherry brandy) or marzipan, a sweet almond paste that Germans love.

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The Many Faces of the German Carnival Season

Unleashing the Fun: A Guide to Germany’s Fascinating Fasching

Germany isn’t just about efficiency and bratwurst (although those are pretty awesome too).
Come February, the country transforms into a kaleidoscope of color, music, and merrymaking,
all thanks to the vibrant carnival season known as Fasching, Fastnacht, or Karneval. But wait, aren’t these three different things? Well, not quite.

Understanding the Names: A Carnival of Confusion Cleared Up

Fasching, Fastnacht, and Karneval all refer to the same thing: Germany’s epic pre-Lenten celebration. The terms are used interchangeably depending on the region. Fasching is more common in southern Germany, while Fastnacht reigns supreme in the west, and Karneval dominates the Rhineland. So, no matter which name you hear, you’re referring to the same fantastic festival.

When the Party Starts: Kicking Off the Carnival Countdown

Fasching/Fastnacht/Karneval isn’t a one-day bash; it’s a full-blown season of merriment. Technically, celebrations begin on November 11th at 11:11 am,
marked by the symbolic awakening of an elderly woman named ‘Frau Fasching’ in some regions. However, February is when things truly explode into a frenzy of fun.

The Grand Finale: Ash Wednesday and Beyond

Fasching/Fastnacht/Karneval doesn’t adhere to a fixed date in February. Instead, its conclusion hinges on a specific Christian holy day: Ash Wednesday.

This movable feast falls 46 days before Easter Sunday, meaning Fasching festivities can culminate anywhere between early and late February.

Celebrating in Style: The Hallmarks of a German Carnival

Now that you know the lingo and the loose timeframe, let’s delve into the heart of the celebrations. Expect a dazzling display of costumes – the more outrageous, the better! Think elaborate feathered headdresses, sparkling gowns, and quirky creature creations. Parades snake through the streets, pulsating with music and overflowing with infectious energy.

People dance in the streets, public squares transform into party zones, and laughter fills the air. And of course, no German celebration is complete without delicious food and drinks. Sample regional specialties, indulge in sweet treats, and raise a toast to the spirit of Fasching.

A Carnival for Everyone: Experiencing Fasching Beyond Germany

The magic of Fasching isn’t confined to German borders. Many cities with sizeable German-American populations host their own Fasching or Karneval celebrations in February. These events typically feature traditional food, music, and dancing, offering a fantastic opportunity to experience a slice of German culture without leaving the US.

So, if you’re looking for a unique way to shake off the winter blues, consider joining the revelry. Dust off your most creative costume, grab your dancing shoes, and get ready to immerse yourself in the joyous chaos that is Germany’s Fasching/Fastnacht/Karneval!

Fasching vs. Fastnacht vs. Karneval

While Fasching, Fastnacht, and Karneval all refer to the same celebration, there are some slight regional variations in traditions and celebrations. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Region
Name
Traditions
Southern Germany Fasching Focus on elaborate costumes and balls.
Western Germany Fastnacht More emphasis on street parades and feasting.
Rhineland Karneval Known for its satirical floats and commentary on political and social issues.

Fasching Fever in the USA: Partying Like a German across the Pond

The spirit of Fasching isn’t just for Germany. Many American cities with strong German heritage come alive in February with their own Fasching or Karneval celebrations. Here are a few highlights:

  • New Orleans, Louisiana: Once known as the “German Coast”, the Big Easy knows how to throw a party, and Fasching is no exception. Head to the historic French Quarter for Rex, King of Carnival, a flamboyant parade known for its throw beads and elaborate costumes.
  • Cincinnati, Ohio: Nicknamed “Fahrneytown” (Pigtown) by German immigrants in the 19th century, Cincinnati boasts a rich German heritage. Their Fasching celebration, held in February, is one of the largest in the US, featuring lively music, traditional food like bratwurst and potato pancakes, and of course, plenty of beer.
  • New Braunfels, Texas: Founded by German immigrants in 1845, New Braunfels holds a legendary Wurstfest every year in mid-November. While not exactly a Fasching celebration, it captures the spirit of German merrymaking with ten days of live music, polka dancing, and, as the name suggests, an endless variety of delicious sausages.
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Home to a large German-American population, Milwaukee throws a fantastic Karneval bash in February. Expect vibrant parades, energetic dance performances, and a chance to sample Milwaukee’s famous beers.
  • Sausalito, California: This charming San Francisco Bay Area town holds a unique Fasching celebration that blends German traditions with a Californian twist. Think lively music, delicious food trucks, and a stunning backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other places across the US that hold Fasching or Karneval celebrations in February. Do some research to see if there’s a celebration happening near you!

Beyond the Parties: Exploring German Culture

While the parties are a blast, Fasching celebrations also offer a chance to delve deeper into German culture. Many events feature traditional music and dance performances, giving you a glimpse into German artistic heritage.

Additionally, you might find booths selling German crafts and souvenirs, making for a perfect opportunity to take home a piece of the Fasching spirit.

So, this February, why not ditch the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary? Join a Fasching celebration, don a wacky costume, and let loose with the infectious joy that defines this vibrant German tradition!

Groundhog Day: A Holiday with Deep German Roots

Every February 2nd, a furry oracle emerges from its burrow, its shadow dictating the fate of winter’s grip. This, of course, is the legendary Groundhog Day, a uniquely North American tradition steeped in folklore and fun.

But did you know its roots lie not in snowy fields, but in the sun-drenched meadows of Germany? That’s right, Groundhog Day, with its quirky charm and weather predictions, bears the distinct paw prints of German immigrants. So, grab your lederhosen (or maybe just a warm coat) and burrow into the surprising history of this beloved holiday.

From Sunbeams to Shadows: The Germanic Origins

Imagine the scene: It’s the Christian holiday of Candlemas, February 2nd, in medieval Germany. Sunlight peeks through the clouds, casting hopeful beams on shivering peasants. They rejoice, for according to an ancient belief, sunshine on this day promises a harsh “second winter” with six more weeks of cold. But wait, what scurries across the sunlit path?

A badger, emerging from its winter slumber! If the badger sees its shadow, folklore warns, the extended winter is assured. This “Dachstag,” or Badger Day, held immense significance for farmers, their livelihoods hinging on the season’s whims.

Planting Traditions in Pennsylvania

Fast forward to the 18th and 19th centuries. German immigrants, particularly those settling in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, brought their customs and folklore across the Atlantic. However, the American landscape lacked badgers. Enter the resourceful groundhog, a close relative with similar hibernating habits. Presto! The tradition was reborn, with the furry Pennsylvanian cousin assuming the weather-predicting mantle.

The first documented mention of a groundhog forecasting winter dates back to 1840, and by the late 19th century, the custom had firmly rooted itself in American soil.

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A Celebration of the Humble Pinecone: Unveiling the Quirky Fun of Tannzapfenfest

Festivals come in all shapes and sizes, celebrating everything from food and music to history and culture. But have you ever heard of a festival dedicated to the pinecone?

In the charming town of Isny im Allgäu, nestled in the Bavarian Alps of Germany, lies a unique tradition – the Tannzapfenfest, or Pinecone Festival.

This build-up to this quirky pine cone celebration, begins in late January with the hunting and gathering thousands of pinecones that are needed to make this event happen, but the actual celebration is held annually in the month of February and is a testament to the ingenuity and lighthearted spirit of the region.

This article delves into the history and festivities of Tannzapfenfest, explores the surprising versatility of the pinecone, and even offers tips for incorporating this unique theme into celebrations in the US, pinecones and all!

Tannzapfenfest: A Celebration Rooted in Tradition

The exact origins of Tannzapfenfest remain shrouded in a bit of mystery. Some believe it originated from a practical need. Foresters, who collected pinecones for replanting purposes, might have held a festival to mark the end of the collection season. Another theory suggests it stemmed from a playful competition between villages, each vying to collect the most pinecones.

Regardless of its exact origin, Tannzapfenfest has become a beloved tradition in Isny im Allgäu. The festival takes place over several days in February, with the exact dates varying from year to year.

A Festival Fit for a King (or Queen) of Cones

Tannzapfenfest is a vibrant celebration that offers something for everyone. 

  • The Grand Pinecone Parade: The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the parade. Imagine a spectacle of floats adorned with thousands of pinecones, marching bands playing lively tunes, and people dressed in colorful costumes, all celebrating the humble cone.

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Exploring America’s Top 25 Towns with German Influences

The tapestry of American history is woven with threads from many cultures, and German immigrants have played a significant role in shaping its landscape. Their influence is evident not just in traditions and cuisine, but also in the names of countless towns scattered across the nation.

Today, we embark on a linguistic and cultural journey, exploring the origins and stories behind 25 American towns with charmingly German names:

1. New Braunfels, Texas: Founded in 1845 by a group of German nobles seeking religious freedom, New Braunfels (“New Braunfels”) retains its European charm with its historic architecture, lively festivals like Wurstfest, and the iconic Schlitterbahn waterpark.

2. Frankenmuth, Michigan: Nicknamed “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth (“Franconian Courage”) boasts the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. Founded in 1845 by Lutheran Bavarians, the town celebrates its heritage with Oktoberfests, traditional Bavarian meals, and lively polka music.

3. Karlsruhe, North Dakota: Established in 1883 by German settlers, Karlsruhe (“Charles’s Rest”) reflects its European roots in its Lutheran church, German restaurants, and traditional Maifest celebrations.

» Read more

Defying the Winter Chill: 5 Beloved German Dishes to Warm Your January

Germany might conjure images of lush green landscapes and vibrant summer festivals, but winter holds its own magic in the land of hearty food and heartwarming traditions.

As January paints the world white, Germans turn to a culinary repertoire specifically designed to combat the cold. These dishes are more than just meals; they’re comforting embraces, flavor-packed escapes from the winter blues.

So, grab your mittens, crank up the heat, and prepare to embark on a delicious journey through 5 iconic German dishes that will chase away the January chill:

1. Linsensuppe (Lentil Soup): A Humble Hero

Starting off with a classic, Linsensuppe is the epitome of German comfort food. This humble lentil soup, simmered with aromatic vegetables and seasoned with smoked sausage and bay leaves, is not only soul-warming but also incredibly nutritious.

Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, keeping you energized throughout the long winter days. The smoky depth of the sausage adds a delightful savory twist, while the vegetables lend pops of flavor and essential vitamins. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top and a slice of crusty bread for dipping make this simple soup an absolute winner.

Lentil Soup Recipe

Ingredients: 1 cup brown lentils, 1 onion, diced, 2 carrots, diced, 2 celery stalks, diced, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 bay leaf, 1 smoked sausage (like kielbasa), sliced, salt, pepper, fresh herbs for garnish (optional).

Instructions: Rinse lentils and soak in water for 30 minutes. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened. Add lentils, broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender. Add sliced sausage and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

2. Grünkohl mit Pinkel (Kale with Sausage): A North German Delight

Venture north, where the wind blows fiercely and the kale grows strong. Grünkohl mit Pinkel is a traditional dish from Lower Saxony, a hearty stew featuring dunkelbunt (a garlicky blood sausage) nestled amongst a bed of savory kale.

The kale is typically cooked with onions, bacon, and goose fat, resulting in a rich, flavorful base.

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How German New Year Traditions Made Their Mark in America

For many Americans, New Year’s Day evokes images of champagne toasts, football, and resolutions quickly forgotten. But delve deeper, and you might find surprising traces of a different cultural influence: Germany.

From festive foods to unique customs, German immigrants brought over centuries-old traditions that have subtly woven themselves into the fabric of American New Year’s celebrations.

In Germany, New Year’s Eve, known as “Silvester,” takes center stage. Unlike the quiet reflection often associated with January 1st in America, Silvester explodes with fireworks, joyous gatherings, and lively traditions.

Let’s explore some of the most prominent German customs and their journey across the Atlantic:

Glühwein into the New Year:

The aroma of warm, spiced mulled wine, known as Glühwein, is practically synonymous with German Christmas markets. But in Germany, this festive drink spills over into Silvester celebrations, warming hands and hearts as revelers gather outdoors.

While Glühwein hasn’t quite become a mainstream American New Year’s beverage, its influence can be seen in the growing popularity of mulled cider and other warm, spiced drinks during the winter holidays.

Relax with Gemütlichkeit at the Stammtisch:

Additionally, the concept of “Gemütlichkeit,” a German word encompassing coziness, warmth, and good company, resonates with the American desire for a comforting and festive atmosphere on New Year’s Eve.

Imagine kicking back with friends, laughter filling the air as warmth radiates from a crackling fireplace. This feeling, this atmosphere – that’s the magic of “Gemütlichkeit,” a German word that somehow captures coziness, friendly vibes, and a good dose of warmth all in one. Sounds pretty darn appealing, right? Well, guess what? This delightful concept resonates deeply with Americans too!

Across the USA, German heritage communities are channeling their inner Gemütlichkeit by creating little pockets of cozy joy called “Stammtisch’s.” These gatherings, often held at restaurants, bars, or social clubs with a German flair, are all about embracing their German roots. Picture a room filled with lively conversations about family stories passed down through generations, traditions kept alive, and maybe even a few attempts at recipes.

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Embracing German Traditions: January Celebrations in America with a Twist

It’s almost January in Germany, and the party is just getting started in America. While Octoberfest might be the first thing that comes to mind when considering German-American celebrations, the truth is, the rich heritage of German culture offers unique celebrations throughout the year.

January, often painted as a quiet month after the holiday flurry, holds vibrant traditions in Germany that have found a warm welcome in the hearts of German-Americans. Prepare to delve into the magic of these winter festivities, where customs from the old world intertwine with American flair, creating a truly unique experience.

Neujahr: Ringing in the New Year with German Cheer

New Year’s Day, or Neujahr in German, is a national holiday in both Germany and the United States. While Americans raise champagne flutes at midnight, German-Americans often enjoy a different kind of bubbly cheer: Feuerzangenbowle. This fiery punch, prepared with rum-soaked sugar set ablaze, brings warmth and excitement to the festivities.

German-American communities often host Bleigießen, a traditional fortune-telling ritual using melted lead poured into water. The resulting shapes are interpreted to provide glimpses into the coming year, adding a touch of playful mysticism to the celebrations.

Heilige Drei Könige: Epiphany with a Caroling Twist

Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, holds special significance for both religious and cultural reasons. In Germany, it’s known as Heilige Drei Könige (Three Kings’ Day), marking the arrival of the Magi. While it’s not a national holiday in the US, German-American communities keep the tradition alive with unique twists.

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A Taste of History: Unveiling the Origins of German Sweet Dressing

Nestled amidst the charming farmlands of northern Germany, in the region of Schleswig-Holstein, lies a culinary gem that has transcended generations and continents – the delectable German Sweet Dressing.

This unique stuffing, brimming with local ingredients and a rich heritage, has become a beloved tradition, gracing Christmas tables and Thanksgiving feasts alike.


Rooted in Frugal Innovation

The origins of the original German Sweet Dressing holiday recipes that often remind everyone of a bread pudding-type texture and raisins, but made from apples and raisins can be traced back to the resourceful spirit of German farmers, who sought to utilize simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a hearty stuffing for their Christmas goose.

Bread, butter, apples, raisins, molasses, honey, or sugar – these humble staples formed the foundation of this culinary masterpiece.

Driven by necessity and a touch of culinary creativity, these farmers transformed readily available ingredients into a symphony of flavors. The sweetness of honey or molasses balanced the tang of apples and raisins, while the richness of butter complemented the earthiness of bread.

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The Heartwarming Tale of the German Christmas Pickle: A Symbol of Hope, Faith, and Gratitude

This blog article was selected to be produced as an AUDIO BLOG as well. Simply CLICK the link below to view. Enjoy!

Portions of our videos and blog post may or may not contain image, video and audio elements of A.I. (artificial intelligence) enhancement for interpretation, rendition and entertainment purposes.

In the midst of the American Civil War, amidst the chaos and strife that characterized the era, a heartwarming tradition emerged—one that continues to grace Christmas trees with its enduring charm: the German Christmas Pickle.

This distinctive Christmas Pickle Ornament is quite inspirational when you know the whole story. It’s a narrative of hope, faith, and gratitude, that draws its inspiration from the unlikely setting from the dire conditions of Andersonville, Georgia during the American Civil War.

The Inspirational Origin:

Our journey into the heart of this heartwarming tradition begins with the life of John C. Lower, a Bavarian-born soldier who fought on the side of the Federal Union forces during the Civil War and served as his unit’s quartermaster.

Captured in the year 1864, Lower found himself facing the harsh and deplorable conditions of Andersonville Prison, notorious for its overcrowded and unsanitary environment. However, it was on a poignant Christmas Eve within these confines that Lower’s life took an unexpected and hopeful turn.

Legend has it that a compassionate guard, moved by Lower’s plight, offered him a simple yet profound gift—a pickle, halfway eaten already but still a grateful token in humanity. Miraculously, this humble pickle became a source of rejuvenation for the ailing soldier, breathing a spirit of resilience and hope into his weary soul.

Following the war, upon his return to Germany, you’ll learn that Lower carried this poignant memory with him, and through a series of regional travels, random meetings, and humble ideas, John C. Lower eventually established a heartwarming family tradition of hanging a pickle ornament on his Christmas tree each year.

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German Oyster Dressing, a favorite of Northern Germany near the Sea.

German Oyster Dressing, also known as “Austernfüllung,” is a traditional dish from Northern Germany, particularly in regions near the Baltic Sea. It’s a rich and flavorful variation of classic oyster stuffing, incorporating elements of German spices like caraway seeds and thyme.

German Oyster Dressing is a favorite on the tables of Northern Germans. It’s also popular as a special generational holiday recipe for Americans of German ancestry that originated in the coastal areas of northern Germany too. It’s common to see German Oyster Dressing on the tables of German Americans during both Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

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Backyard Biergarten – How To Create for Summertime Fun

Creating your own Backyard Biergarten at your home can be tons of fun, especially when family, close friends and all your neighbors can share in the enjoyment of it all. 

beer-garden

Your own Backyard Biergarten is a real fun project to create and you really can make it as simple or elaborate as you may wish. After all, it is your backyard.

The first part of creating a viable Biergarten in your backyard is knowing the history of Biergartens in Germany. It is true that Biergartens originated in the 19th century in Munich, the capital of the German state of Bavaria.

The large breweries back then dug cellars in the banks near rivers to keep their beer cool during storage. During both the Spring and Summer months they would bring the beer out to enjoy under shade trees in a natural setting outdoors.

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German dialect in Texas is one of a kind, and dying out

 

German Heritage in Texas – It’s a culture into itself…

German dialect in Texas is one of a kind, and dying out

The first German settlers arrived in Texas over 150 years ago and successfully passed on their native language throughout the generations – until now.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-22490560

It’s always interesting to see the German influence in small businesses throughout Texas. See the video inside the article link above for additional insights…

A Review of Zum Schneider, in Montauk

 

A barnlike place with timbered ceilings looking like a Bavarian beer hall…. Hmmm, sounds like my kind of place…

A Review of Zum Schneider, in Montauk

“The Bavarian flavors at Zum Schneider in Montauk extend beyond its food and beer offerings to its house soccer team and an oompah band.New York Times”
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/01/nyregion/a-review-of-zum-schneider-in-montauk.html

Zum Schneider’s German Restaurant is the perfect place unwind in this laid-back hamlet of Montauk New York.

For more information on German Heritage in the USA, visit: www.GermanNationUSA.com

Anheuser-Busch plans restaurant at St. Louis’ Ballpark Village

 

Here comes the King, here comes the number one!

Anheuser-Busch plans restaurant at St. Louis’ Ballpark Village

“The licensing and sponsorship agreement with the St. Louis Cardinals and the Cordish Companies, a Baltimore-based development company, will include a 25000-square-foot restaurant with German-inspired cuisine, more than 100 global beers on tap, and …”
http://nrn.com/article/anheuser-busch-plans-restaurant-st-louis-ballpark-village

The Anheuser-Busch Restaurant - St. Louis

An absolute first. Anheuser-Busch licenses its brand for a German Heritage related restaurant in St Louis that includes an outdoor Biergarten too.

Read more: http://nrn.com/article/anheuser-busch-plans-restaurant-st-louis-ballpark-village#ixzz1zDteAFB2

German-American | Flickr – Photo Sharing!

 

German Heritage USA – Having fun in Cincy…

German-American | Flickr – Photo Sharing!

"German-American Day at Findlay Market in the Over-the-Rhine area of Cincinnati , Ohio. The man was celebrating his German heritage at German-American …www.flickr.com/photos/jefferysview/7332137234/"
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jefferysview/7332137234/

German Heritage USA

German-American Day at Findlay Market in Cincinnati, Ohio is a great time to celebrate your German Heritage.  ~ Prost!
 

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