Jena and Erlangen celebrate the Day of German Unity together

This year, 133 citizens of Jena celebrated the Day of German Unity in the twin city of Erlangen with a varied program. Several buses set off early in the morning for Franconia to celebrate the day together.

The organization team in Erlangen had once again prepared a varied programme: The guests from Jena were able to discover new aspects of the twin city on a guided tour. Talks at round tables offered the opportunity for encounters and intensive discussions. At the pub quiz with Big Kev, participants were able to test their knowledge of the town twinning. There were also musical highlights: a joint concert by the trombone choirs of both cities created a festive atmosphere. Friendly volleyball and table tennis matches were also played. The worthy conclusion was an ecumenical prayer service, the collection from which traditionally benefits a joint aid project.

The partnership between Jena and Erlangen has existed since 1987 and for many years the Day of German Unity has been celebrated in both cities on alternate years. The anniversary of German Unity thus also provides an opportunity to deepen and further develop the long friendship between the two cities.

Lord Mayor Dr. Thomas Nitzsche emphasized the importance of this connection:
"Our partnership with Erlangen has long been much more than an official agreement - it is friendship in action. October 3 is not only a day of remembrance of German unity, but also a day of encounter and hope. The fact that we celebrate it alternately in our two cities shows how sustainable and lively this partnership is after almost four decades."

At the end, all participants joined in a joint song - a symbol of solidarity that has become a beautiful tradition in recent years.

Menschen sitzen an Runden Tischen in einem großen Saal

Jena zu Besuch in Erlangen: An Runden Tischen hatten die Gäste Gelegenheit für Gespräche

Zwei Männer stehen auf einer Bühne. Davor sitzen Menschen an runden Tischen

Erlangens Oberbürgermeister Floran Janik (links) und Oberbürgermeister Dr. Thomas Nitzsche begrüßen die Gäste in Erlangen

Menschen sitzen in einem Park, im Hintergrund eine Kirche in Erlangen

Spaziergang in Erlangen bei goldenem Herbstwetter am Tag der Deutschen Einheit