Language learning, cultural discovery, and the work StFX students have completed throughout the academic year were highlights of the 19th annual German Day hosted March 20, 2026, by the German courses and the German Society of the Modern Languages Department at StFX.
This year’s theme focused on German Canadian connections. Organizer and German instructor Prof. Marlis Lade said the event featured a keynote address by Myka Burke, Officer of Culture and Communication at the German Embassy in Ottawa, who spoke about the importance of learning German and Canada’s strong ties with Germany and the European Union in trade, science, and culture.
The program was moderated by Annika Wolfert and Allie Fennell, German Society co-president, and included student presentations, performances, and discussions.
Beginner German students introduced audiences to German cities and regional specialties, while other presentations explored historical and personal connections between Germany and Canada. Prof. Lade says highlights included an animated timeline of German Canadian relations, reflections on personal family histories, and a musical performance of Beethoven’s Sonatina in F.
Students also shared the story of Holocaust survivor Margot Friedländer and explored traditions such as Eisstock, a sport considered a forerunner to curling. Prof. Lade noted a special moment of the afternoon was the visit from Mi’kmaw artist Alan Syliboy. Students from the German 200 course presented their German translation of his book When the Owl Comes to You, followed by a discussion on storytelling and cultural exchange.
The event concluded with an interactive Kahoot game that brought the audience together in a fun, engaging way. “German Day once again demonstrated that language learning goes beyond the classroom, creating opportunities for creativity, collaboration, and connection within the StFX community and beyond,” Prof. Lade said.
German Day at StFX began nearly two decades ago as a simple idea to create something that would showcase the growing program and celebrate student achievement. The first German Day took place in November 2004.
