Day of the Homeland — September 12, 2027

Categories:: Cultural
Tags:: German Historical Military
Where:: Germany
Date change rule:: Second Sunday of September
Holiday emoji:: 🇩🇪

Day of the Homeland takes place every second Sunday of September in the Federal Republic of Germany. This observance respects and honors German expellees, while celebrating human rights and freedom throughout the country. Reflect on Germany’s resilience, learn about its cultural significance, and participate in local observances.

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Expected Day of the Homeland Deals

As a day of national remembrance and cultural recognition, Day of the Homeland typically focuses on educational and commemorative events rather than commercial deals. Organizations like the Federation of Expellees (BdV) often coordinate events, while cultural institutions such as the Deutsches Historisches Museum may offer special exhibits. Local communities might see support from businesses like Deutsche Bahn or Lufthansa for travel to memorial sites, or partnerships with publishers like C.H. Beck for historical literature. We will update this page with confirmed live events and any relevant support initiatives as September approaches.

Platform Guide for Day of the Homeland

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #DayOfTheHomeland. Share insights on German history, cultural resilience, or human rights initiatives.

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Mention @NatlToday and use #DayOfTheHomeland. Post about the day’s significance, historical facts, or share news from official observances.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #DayOfTheHomeland. Share stories of German heritage, local community events, or discussions on human rights.

Day of the Homeland Hero

Paul Wagner

Paul Wagner was a prominent German politician credited with the successful passing of a resolution in Göttingen, 1957, which called for the establishment of a 'Day of the Homeland.' His efforts were instrumental in creating an official day to honor German expellees and reflect on the nation's journey towards human rights and freedom after World War II.

Day of the Homeland timeline

1949

Resolution passes to observe Day of the Homeland as an annual event

Due to the efforts of Paul Wagner, this day gets official status in the town of Goettingen.

1950

A proclamation honors the Charter of the German Expellees

This charter, introduced at a rally in Stuttgart Castle, was pivotal to creating the Day of the Homeland.

2003 & 2006

The Pope sends his greetings

The Vatican sends both Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI to Germany to offer greetings that acknowledge the non-violence of the expellees and Germany’s commitment to international understanding.

2007

A special focus on human rights made for meaningful celebrations

German Chancellor Angela Merkel was the most prominent speaker at the rally in Berlin that centered around the motto, "Home Is Human Rights."

How Businesses Can Celebrate Day of the Homeland

Local businesses in Germany can observe Day of the Homeland by supporting community events that honor expellees and celebrate human rights. Retailers might partner with local historical societies to display educational materials or donate a portion of sales to organizations working with displaced persons. Restaurants could feature regional German dishes that reflect diverse cultural influences, fostering a sense of shared heritage and community.

Day of the Homeland FAQs

When is Day of the Homeland?

In 2027, Day of the Homeland will be observed on Sunday, September 12, providing another opportunity for Germans to reflect on their heritage and the nation’s journey towards unity and human dignity.

What is the Day of the Homeland in Germany?

This day, established through a resolution in Göttingen in 1957, commemorates the experiences of millions of Germans who were forced to leave their ancestral lands. It is a day for remembrance, reconciliation, and emphasizing the importance of human rights for all.

Is Day of the Homeland a public holiday in Germany?

Despite not being a federal holiday, the day is widely recognized through organized activities by the government and various associations. These events provide platforms for discussion and commemoration, ensuring its significance is acknowledged.

How many German expellees were there after WWII?

The expulsions, largely from territories in present-day Poland, the Czech Republic, and other Eastern European countries, constituted one of the largest forced migrations in history. The day serves to remember their plight and the subsequent integration into the Federal Republic of Germany.

How to Observe Day of the Homeland

Read about German history
Educate yourself and your children about the events that shaped Germany by reading a good historical book or novel. Knowledge is power!
Attend community events
Think globally, act locally. Community events bring people together and create an opportunity where everyone can share ideas and values that improve society.
Visit a war memorial
Every citizen must respect and recognize the sacrifices made by soldiers and martyrs in the precious name of freedom. If you visit a war memorial, remember that it's hallowed ground and share a moment of silence with others.

5 Facts To Get You Up To Speed About Germany's Day Of The Homeland

Every year there's a different motto
The Day of the Homeland has a different motto each year. Past examples include "Human Rights," and "Expulsions are Wrong."
Between 13 and 16 million Germans were expelled
During World War II, a shocking number of ethnic Germans were expelled or forced to leave parts of Central and Eastern Europe.
It's all about speeches, rallies, and flags
High ranking government officials and politicians make speeches on this day. All public buildings bear the German flag.
It's a Memorial Day for those affected
Of all the things it celebrates, Day of the Homeland is foremost a day to remember those expellees who passed away, especially during World War II.
It's big on human rights
The Day of the Homeland reminds Germans and others that everyone has the right to citizenship and a home in the country of their heritage.

Why Day of the Homeland is Important

It pays respects to the expellees
Due to both world wars, millions of Germans were expelled or deported to other countries. Day of the Homeland was part of an effort to encourage and assist those who were expelled to return to their homeland and to honor those who have passed away due to hunger and sickness.
It reminds Germans of their homeland's precious values
As good citizens, we occasionally need to stop and think about the values that built our great nations. Whether we're German nationals or Americans, it's important to remember the blessings of home.
It advocates democracy and international understanding
A large number of events follow this day, all with the aim of encouraging democratic values and peaceful international relations. It's a beautiful thing.