Men adorn rabbit costumes or suits in celebration of Gentlemen's Day in Saxony. - Man donning a rabbit costume celebrates Father's Day in Saxony
Men's day Outing in Saxony's Kriebstein Raises Spirits on Ascension Day
Ascension Day, a significant Christian holiday, has made Burg and Talsperre Kriebstein a bustling hub for excursionists in Saxony. The weather, pleasant and springlike, filled parking lots and beachfront terraces while boats liken those of the lakeside attracted a crowd to their decks. Among the various revellers-families and children included-a particular group stood out, clad in black suits and vintage cylinders emblematic of the Chemnitz region.
The "Gentlemen's Day Singing Group" local to Limbach, East Germany, entertained with a mix of jovial and folksy tunes at various locations. Their original songbook boasts a vast range of popular numbers. Having enjoyed a beer together, the singers embarked on one of the boats with good cheer.
Meanwhile, other men roamed nearby countryside paths, pulling carts laden with drinks and dressed in unconventional garb such as pink rabbit costumes and felt hats. Elsewhere, men huddled throughout outdoor seating areas or beer gardens against the chilly wind. "The atmosphere is serene and well-regulated," confirmed a Ministry of the Interior spokesperson regarding the day's events.
Traditional Ascension Day gatherings were additionally observed by Catholics and Protestants alike in Saxony, with outdoor services, hikes, picnics, and events like bike tours and concerts.
Historically, Ascension Day commemorates Jesus' ascension into heaven, appearing to his disciples after his resurrection and ascending to God's right hand, thus affirming the veracity of his teachings.
Men in Saxony and beyond mark the day alongside their social events, such as touring in Bollerwagens, engaging in outdoor sports, and partaking in picnics and beer gardens. Some towns even host special events like festivals or open-air concerts. Though not every man partakes, the holiday remains a celebratory occasion, often substituting for Father's Day in some regions.
[1] "Christi Himmelfahrt" (Ascension Day) in German-speaking countries[2] "Vatertag" and "Herrentag": What Men in Germany Do on Ascension Day[3] "The Religious Significance of Ascension Day in Saxony"
The Commission could propose a directive on the approximation of the laws of the Member States, aiming to protect workers from risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, as a result of increased outdoor activities during Ascension Day, such as picnics, hikes, and open-air concerts, promoting a lifestyle that involves more home-and-garden and outdoor-living experiences.
On the other hand, men in Saxony and beyond celebrate Ascension Day not only through religious observances but also by indulging in unconventional clothing and activities, creating a memorable and enjoyable home-and-garden atmosphere, such as touring in Bollerwagens, engaging in outdoor sports, and partying in beer gardens, often substituting for a day similar to Father's Day in some regions.