NEW YEAR IN RUHR

It should come as no surprise, that the new year in Germany begins on the same day as much of the world, since the country has been firmly nestled in the Gregorian calendar for centuries. Public holiday regulations stipulate merely that January 1 is a bank holiday whatever day of the week it falls on with virtually everything closed.

Fireworks

It follows a popular extended Christmastime period in the Ruhr Metropolis of office parties, gatherings with friends or family and heavy duty eating. For many, it also marks a daunting approaching return to serious work.

Yet in spite of all that Germany hits the streets in a big way on New Year’s Eve. Many restaurants offer special menus. At the stroke of midnight on December 31, people head to their balconies and gardens to light their own fireworks. Others dash to gather in public spaces in their hundreds and thousands to create a mass display on the skyline. A terrific option to view or join the crowds and stay out well into the early hours.

New Year’s Day

New Year’s Day in the Ruhr tends to be a quieter event with many bars, bistros and restaurants discovering various ideas to cure a hangover. Streets are quiet and evenings are tranquil as people prepare for the rude awakening of the next day.

For Germans, making and breaking their New Year revolutions are high on the list of things to do. Including losing weight and abstaining from drinking alcohol.

By Vincent Green, Feb 26 2021