German Language Day champions the beauty and global significance of the German language every second Saturday of September. Dive into its rich literary heritage, discover its unique linguistic quirks, and consider learning a few phrases yourself. Celebrate the language of poets, philosophers, and innovators.
Want to sponsor German Language Day? Learn how
Expected German Language Day Deals
As German Language Day approaches, expect language learning platforms and cultural institutions to offer special promotions. In past years, organizations like the Goethe-Institut have hosted open houses and free trial classes, while apps such as Duolingo and Babbel often provide discounts on premium subscriptions. Bookstores like Barnes & Noble may feature German literature and language guides. Cultural centers across the U.S. frequently organize events, film screenings, and workshops to engage the public. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as September 12 approaches.
Platform Guide for German Language Day
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #GermanLanguageDay. Share insights on the importance of German in business and academia.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #GermanLanguageDay. Tweet fun facts about German words or share your favorite German quotes.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #GermanLanguageDay. Post about local German cultural events or language meetups in your community.
German Language Day Hero
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
German Language Day timeline
Historical records reveal that ancient Romans were in contact with German speakers.
Luther translates the Bible into German, providing a people's alternative to the dominance of Latin.
Directed by Wolfgang Peterson, this German classic earned fame all over the world.
The German Language Association (VDS) celebrated this day for the first time, embarking on an endeavor to promote the German language, worldwide.
German Language Day FAQs
When is German Language Day?
German Language Day 2026 falls on Saturday, September 12. This annual observance celebrates the rich history and global impact of the German language.
How many people speak German worldwide?
Globally, approximately 130 million people speak German as a native or second language. It is the most widely spoken native language in the European Union, highlighting its significant international presence.
How popular is German language learning?
German remains a popular language to learn, especially for those interested in engineering, science, philosophy, and classical music. Millions of students globally pursue German language studies, driven by academic, professional, and cultural interests.
What is the German Language Association (VDS)?
The German Language Association (Verein Deutsche Sprache, VDS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the German language. Founded in 1997, it advocates for the use and appreciation of German in all aspects of life.
German Language Day Activities
German, anyone?
Learning German can be a whole lot of fun, especially when you actually get a chance to use it on a European trip. But if you can't travel to Germany, right here in the United States, there are German pastry shops or bookstores where you can try out what you've learned.
Read a German classic
Even an English translation will do. Because the more that you read, the more you'll learn. National German Language Day is also a great day to watch some classic German horror films like "Nosferatu" or "The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari."
Have a beer. Prost!
Okay, so this is not exactly Oktoberfest. But as far as we know, anything German calls for a cold beer. And a meaty, bratwurst!
5 Facts About The German Language That Will Untwist Your Tongue
It's the sixth most widely-spoken language
By ranking, these are the most widely-spoken languages in the world: Chinese (encompassing both Mandarin and Cantonese,) English, Hindi-Urdu, Spanish, Russian and German. It's also the most widely-spoken language in Europe. Gut gemacht!
German is the language of writers and thinkers
Goethe, Schiller, Brecht, Marx, Nietzsche — great thinkers all, were masters of the German language.
German and English are sister languages
Both languages are a part of the West Germanic languages. German and English have greatly influenced each other’s cultures and sometimes, there's also a little sibling rivalry!
Unlike English, German has three genders
Masculine, feminine, and neuter. If that's hard to wrap your mind (and your mouth) around; some languages, like Polish, have six grammatical genders!
German has some funny proverbs
"Das ist nicht dein Bier" translates as, "that’s not your beer." But what it really means is, "this is none of your business, stay out!"
Why We Love German Language Day
German is the most widely-spoken language in Europe
Spoken by 95 million people worldwide, German is the native language of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Plus, it's fascinating when one German word contains 80 letters!
Language and culture go hand-in-hand
In a world where English is becoming the go-to language on the international stage; individual countries are working hard to maintain their own national lingua franca. Reviving the German language is also an attempt to preserve the culture and history of Germany. But if you want to learn contemporary German, watch German television on National German Language Day.
Forgetting your mother tongue is a real loss
For German children living outside Germany, learning and speaking their mother tongue is one of the most important ways they can connect to their culture and heritage. It's also an added asset to be bilingual or even trilingual in today's international business climate.
German Language Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 13 | Saturday |
Social Media Tips for German Language Day
Individuals
Creators
Brands