Parktown embraces German culture at DSJ 114th annual Schulbasar

The Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg (DSJ) was the place to be this past Saturday as it hosted the much-anticipated 114th annual Schulbasar, transforming its Parktown grounds into a vibrant celebration of German culture.

June 25, 2024

Naziya Davids-Easthorpe 1 minute read

Stephanie le Roy, Jualeen Swanepoel, and Meghan Scanlen dress in traditional dirndls and enjoy a beer at Pam's Long Bar.

The Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg (DSJ) hosted the much-anticipated 114th annual Schulbasar.
The school grounds in Parktown transformed into a vibrant hub of German culture on May 25, attracting crowds eager to indulge in a day filled with food, fun, and festivities.

Wendy, Mark, Kyla and Simone Fourie spend quality family time together at Schulbasar. Photo: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

The Schulbasar, often hailed as the biggest event on the Johannesburg calendar, did not disappoint. Visitors were treated to a wide variety of beers and traditional foods such as bratwurst, schnitzel, and pretzels. Live performances on stage kept the energy high throughout the day, featuring local talent and traditional German music and dance.

Jutta Barends, Suzanne Monster, and Tanja Henrichs.

Stephanie Le Roy, a long-time attendee, shared her enthusiasm for the event. “It’s the biggest event on the Johannesburg calendar, a fabulous opportunity for us to experience German culture annually with friends and family. It’s a great support of the Deutsche school. We love it and we’ve been coming for eight years.”

Lauren, Sophie, and Chadd Hunzinger dress up for Schulbasar. Photo: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

For those new to the Schulbasar, the experience was equally compelling. Alice Sholto-Douglas, attending for the first time at the encouragement of her best friend, remarked, “It is an unmissable event. It’s very cool, everyone here is very friendly. Maybe it’s because they’ve drunk so much beer.”

Father Benedikt Hülsmann OSB. Photo: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

Martinique Lanz and Sean Davies enjoy their time at Schulbasar. Photo: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

Children of all ages found plenty to keep them entertained. The event featured a variety of activities, from face painting to games. Isabella Smith-Wolters, a 15-year-old learner at DSJ, has been coming to the Schulbasar since she was four. “I remember always playing the games; it was always an amazing experience. This event has taught me how to be independent.”

Charlotte Rapp, Emily Ralphs, Chloe van Zyl, and Isabella Smith-Wolters. Photo: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

The Schulbasar not only provided entertainment but also fostered a strong sense of community and cultural appreciation. The success of this year’s event reaffirms its place as a cherished tradition within the Johannesburg community.