The festive season 2025 began in the best possible way as members and friends of the Deutsch‑Englische‑Gesellschaft Bayreuth gathered for this year’s Christmas Dinner. Surrounded by a warm atmosphere, lively conversations, and plenty of seasonal cheer, the evening proved how special our international community has become in the past months.

From the moment guests arrived, the room was filled with familiar faces, new visitors, and the unmistakable spirit that defines the DEG: openness, friendship, and a shared love for the anglophone world.

Looking Back on a Successful Year

In her welcoming address, board chair Sabine Greiner reflected on a dynamic and rewarding year for the club. Over the past months, the DEG has continued to grow not only in numbers but also in energy and diversity. A varied programme of activities helped strengthen connections among members and expand the network of “Anglophonistas” in Bayreuth.

Regular Social Evenings, Conversation Nights, Book Club meetings, and the popular Malts & Mates gatherings created welcoming spaces for discussion, laughter, literature, and – occasionally – a good glass of whisky. These smaller events, as Sabine emphasised, are at the heart of the club: relaxed, friendly, and open to everyone, including non-members.

Highlights That Brought the Community Together

The past year was rich in memorable moments. Among the standout events were the traditional Burns Night celebration, a lively St Patrick’s Day gathering, a charming Tea Time in Pegnitz, and the much-loved summer BBQ made possible through the generous hospitality of dedicated members.

A particularly special highlight was the recent Jane Austen Day celebrating the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen. With tea, scones, dancing, and literary readings, the event captured the spirit of cultural exchange that lies at the heart of the DEG.

Looking Ahead with Excitement

The Christmas Dinner was not only a moment to reflect but also to look forward. Guests were given a preview of an exciting and colourful programme planned for the coming year. Alongside established favourites, members can look forward to themed evenings and new activities — including a Jamaican-inspired celebration honouring Bob Marley, a detective-themed Tea Time inspired by Arthur Conan Doyle, a club hike, community events, and many opportunities to meet, exchange ideas, and celebrate together.

The message was clear: the DEG thrives through participation. Members are warmly encouraged not only to attend events but also to contribute ideas, lend a hand, and help shape the club’s future.

A Heartfelt Thank You

A special moment of the evening was the expression of gratitude to the board members, helpers, and long-standing supporters whose dedication keeps the association vibrant and welcoming. Their enthusiasm and teamwork continue to make the DEG a place where people feel at home.

Ending the Year Together

A particularly joyful highlight of the evening was the traditional singing of Christmas carols, which brought everyone together in true festive spirit. Accompanied by long-standing member Hans-Jörg Fuchs, guests enthusiastically joined in, filling the room with music and seasonal cheer. Adding to the fun was a lively tombola, which created excitement and plenty of laughter as lucky winners took home a variety of delightful prizes — a perfect reminder of the warm, community-focused character of the DEG.

We thank everyone who joined us and helped make the evening so memorable, and we look forward to many more cheerful gatherings in the year ahead.

Merry Christmas and a happy, event-filled New Year from the DEG Bayreuth!