Today is a holiday in Germany for two reasons: It’s Christi Himmelfahrt (Ascension Day is the 40th day following Easter. But, this is also the date recognized as Father’s Day in Germany. In the Eastern part of Germany, it might also be called Men’s day.
Unlike the tradition in the USA, German fathers follow a slightly different path. Large groups of men gather and go for a long walk or hike together. They either wander from Beer Garden to Beer Garden or they pull a wagon filled with beer. Often the wagon is specially built for this one and only purpose and it’s often decorated with lilacs and birch branches. Sometimes a horse carriage is employed, or even a bike with a trailer or an antique tractor. Sadly, however, the drinking can get out of hand and alcohol related accidents TRIPLE on Father’s Day.
Nowadays it’s common to celebrate the day more as a family and it offers a short work week since it hits on Thursday and most people take Friday off as well.