Upcoming Events

Discover upcoming festivals and events at the GAI—celebrating German language, culture, and community through engaging programs for all ages.

Stammtisch Curbside
Mar
10

Stammtisch Curbside

Enjoy a delicious home-cooked German Mittagessen at Stammtisch Curbside! Pick up your meal-to-go at the GAI between 11:30 a.m. and noon. Reservations are required—please call the office at 651-222-7027 or email office@gaimn.org by 3 p.m. on the Wednesday before Stammtisch to reserve your meal.

Das Menü: Porkroast, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, dessert

$15 (curbside) includes your meal and dessert.

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Film Screening: Two to One (Zwei zu Eins)
Mar
12

Film Screening: Two to One (Zwei zu Eins)

Set in the chaotic summer of 1990, Two to One (Zwei zu Eins) follows a group of East Germans who discover millions in soon-to-be-worthless Ostmarks and hatch a daring plan before reunification makes their fortune obsolete. Directed by Natja Brunckhorst and inspired by a true story, this breezy heist comedy captures the absurdity, opportunity, and shifting identities of the post–Berlin Wall moment. Sandra Hüller leads a star-studded cast in this sharp, nostalgic caper about what happens when socialist citizens suddenly find themselves in very capitalist circumstances. Film in German with English subtitles.

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GAI Café: Nora Vosburg, PhD
Mar
15

GAI Café: Nora Vosburg, PhD

Start your Sunday morning with good company, great coffee, and delicious German cake at the GAI Café, held on the third Sunday of each month from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Germanic-American Institute. Savor homemade and specialty German cakes alongside strong, aromatic coffee, all available for purchase. Whether you come for the cake, the presentation at 11 a.m., or simply to catch up with friends, we can’t wait to see you at the GAI Café!

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German Storytime
Mar
15

German Storytime

Join us for Storytime in German, now part of the monthly GAI Café!

Parents of babies, toddlers, and young children can enjoy cake and coffee while meeting other families raising bilingual children.

Bring your little ones for a fun and interactive storytime auf Deutsch! Together, we’ll explore German through lively stories and playful songs that spark imagination, build language skills, and celebrate culture.

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GAI Damenklub
Mar
16

GAI Damenklub

The GAI Damenklub (Women’s Club) welcomes all German speaking women who are interested in gathering for Gemütlichkeit and conversation auf Deutsch. The Damen meet at the GAI the third Monday of the month at noon for a potluck lunch and conversation. In addition to regular meetings, the Damenklub hosts Summer Kaffee und Kuchen and they bake and sell Lebkuchen as a GAI fundraiser during the holiday season. Please contact Helga Parnell at 651-457-1590 for details on how to connect with the GAI Damenklub.

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German Sauna Week at the GAI
Mar
16
to Mar 22

German Sauna Week at the GAI

The Germanic-American Institute invites you to slow down, warm up, and reconnect during German Sauna Week, a weeklong celebration of traditional German sauna culture—presented in partnership with Superior Sauna.

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Deutscher Sprachklub
Mar
18

Deutscher Sprachklub

This German language club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency. A variety of topics are presented, and fluency ranges from a working knowledge of German to native speakers.

For more information, contact Helga Parnell, 651-457-1590.

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Game Night (Spieleabend)
Mar
19

Game Night (Spieleabend)

Join us for our monthly Game Night (Spieleabend)! March will be open play night – bring your favorite game or choose from our library of German and German-style games like CATAN, Dorfromantik, Ticket to Ride, Rummikub and more!

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Modelleisenbahn Gruppe
Mar
21

Modelleisenbahn Gruppe

The Modelleisenbahn gruppe is group of model railroad hobbyists who enjoy building and operating models of European trains, primarily from German speaking countries. The Gruppe usually meets at the GAI Haus on the third Saturday of each month.

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Pysanky European Egg Decorating
Mar
21
to Mar 22

Pysanky European Egg Decorating

Indulge your creative spirit and leave with a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that reflects your personal style. Come share in the joy of artistic expression at our Pysanky Egg Decorating Workshop! Discover the centuries-old Central and Eastern European folk art tradition of crafting vibrantly hued and highly detailed works of art on a simple egg using the wax-resist dye technique.

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Kabarett Fundraiser
Mar
27

Kabarett Fundraiser

Join us on March 27 at the historic Wabasha Street Caves for the Germanic-American Institute’s third annual Kabarett fundraising event.

Slip beneath the city streets into the caves, transformed for one night into a vibrant jazz-age cabaret. Filled with the playful spirit of early 20th-century musical theater, the evening offers delicious food, drinks, and unforgettable performances, all guided by the charming MC Douglas Kruhöffer (a.k.a. Paul Douglas). As you enjoy this one-of-a-kind underground experience, your support directly fuels the mission and vital programs of the Germanic-American Institute.

Please RSVP by March 10, 2026.

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Laura Lootens: Diabolico
Apr
14

Laura Lootens: Diabolico

Known for a sound that commands attention from the very first note, German classical guitarist Laura Lootens is widely regarded as one of the most exciting voices in classical guitar today. Her performances combine fearless virtuosity with a striking stage presence, shaped by a deep fascination with contrast—where tension and release drive the music forward.

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Deutscher Sprachklub
Apr
15

Deutscher Sprachklub

This German language club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency. A variety of topics are presented, and fluency ranges from a working knowledge of German to native speakers.

For more information, contact Helga Parnell, 651-457-1590.

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Modelleisenbahn Gruppe
Apr
18

Modelleisenbahn Gruppe

The Modelleisenbahn gruppe is group of model railroad hobbyists who enjoy building and operating models of European trains, primarily from German speaking countries. The Gruppe usually meets at the GAI Haus on the third Saturday of each month.

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GAI Damenklub
Apr
20

GAI Damenklub

The GAI Damenklub (Women’s Club) welcomes all German speaking women who are interested in gathering for Gemütlichkeit and conversation auf Deutsch. The Damen meet at the GAI the third Monday of the month at noon for a potluck lunch and conversation. In addition to regular meetings, the Damenklub hosts Summer Kaffee und Kuchen and they bake and sell Lebkuchen as a GAI fundraiser during the holiday season. Please contact Helga Parnell at 651-457-1590 for details on how to connect with the GAI Damenklub.

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Modelleisenbahn Gruppe
May
16

Modelleisenbahn Gruppe

The Modelleisenbahn gruppe is group of model railroad hobbyists who enjoy building and operating models of European trains, primarily from German speaking countries. The Gruppe usually meets at the GAI Haus on the third Saturday of each month.

View Event →
GAI Damenklub
May
18

GAI Damenklub

The GAI Damenklub (Women’s Club) welcomes all German speaking women who are interested in gathering for Gemütlichkeit and conversation auf Deutsch. The Damen meet at the GAI the third Monday of the month at noon for a potluck lunch and conversation. In addition to regular meetings, the Damenklub hosts Summer Kaffee und Kuchen and they bake and sell Lebkuchen as a GAI fundraiser during the holiday season. Please contact Helga Parnell at 651-457-1590 for details on how to connect with the GAI Damenklub.

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Deutscher Sprachklub
May
20

Deutscher Sprachklub

This German language club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency. A variety of topics are presented, and fluency ranges from a working knowledge of German to native speakers.

For more information, contact Helga Parnell, 651-457-1590.

View Event →
Modelleisenbahn Gruppe
Jun
20

Modelleisenbahn Gruppe

The Modelleisenbahn gruppe is group of model railroad hobbyists who enjoy building and operating models of European trains, primarily from German speaking countries. The Gruppe usually meets at the GAI Haus on the third Saturday of each month.

View Event →
Modelleisenbahn Gruppe
Jul
18

Modelleisenbahn Gruppe

The Modelleisenbahn gruppe is group of model railroad hobbyists who enjoy building and operating models of European trains, primarily from German speaking countries. The Gruppe usually meets at the GAI Haus on the third Saturday of each month.

View Event →

Modelleisenbahn Gruppe
Feb
21

Modelleisenbahn Gruppe

The Modelleisenbahn gruppe is group of model railroad hobbyists who enjoy building and operating models of European trains, primarily from German speaking countries. The Gruppe usually meets at the GAI Haus on the third Saturday of each month.

View Event →
Community Night Out For a Good Cause
Feb
19

Community Night Out For a Good Cause

Join us for our monthly Community Night in the GAI Ratskeller!  Spend the evening enjoying a beverage, connecting with friends old and new and even playing award-winning German board games in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere!

Community Night Out will include a home and hygiene supply drive in support of the International Institute of Minnesota, helping immigrants and refugees make Minnesota their home. As a longtime GAI partner serving many of our founding members, the International Institute does vital work in our community.

Bring a requested hygiene or household item and receive free beverages. To view the full list of items we’re collecting, please click here.

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Deutscher Sprachklub
Feb
18

Deutscher Sprachklub

This German language club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency. A variety of topics are presented, and fluency ranges from a working knowledge of German to native speakers.

For more information, contact Helga Parnell, 651-457-1590.

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GAI Damenklub
Feb
16

GAI Damenklub

The GAI Damenklub (Women’s Club) welcomes all German speaking women who are interested in gathering for Gemütlichkeit and conversation auf Deutsch. The Damen meet at the GAI the third Monday of the month at noon for a potluck lunch and conversation. In addition to regular meetings, the Damenklub hosts Summer Kaffee und Kuchen and they bake and sell Lebkuchen as a GAI fundraiser during the holiday season. Please contact Helga Parnell at 651-457-1590 for details on how to connect with the GAI Damenklub.

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German Storytime - Spotlight on Switzerland
Feb
15

German Storytime - Spotlight on Switzerland

  • 301 Summit Ave Saint Paul United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for Storytime in German, now part of the monthly GAI Café!

Parents of babies, toddlers, and young children can enjoy cake and coffee while meeting other families raising bilingual children.

Bring your little ones for a fun and interactive storytime auf Deutsch! Together, we’ll explore German through lively stories and playful songs that spark imagination, build language skills, and celebrate culture.

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GAI Café: Concert & Donation Drive
Feb
15

GAI Café: Concert & Donation Drive

Join Eryn Tvete as she sings a variety of love songs both old and new. You'll even have the opportunity to sing-along on a song or two. The concert will begin at 11 AM.

GAI Café will also include a home and hygiene supply drive in support of the International Institute of Minnesota, helping immigrants and refugees make Minnesota their home. As a longtime GAI partner serving many of our founding members, the International Institute does vital work in our community. To view the full list of items we’re collecting, please click here.

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Stammtisch Curbside
Feb
10

Stammtisch Curbside

Enjoy a delicious home-cooked German Mittagessen at Stammtisch Curbside! Pick up your meal-to-go at the GAI between 11:30 a.m. and noon. Reservations are required—please call the office at 651-222-7027 or email office@gaimn.org by 3 p.m. on the Wednesday before Stammtisch to reserve your meal.

$15 (curbside) includes your meal and dessert.

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Karneval Tanzparty
Feb
7
to Feb 8

Karneval Tanzparty

Karneval 2026 is almost here and we are ready to party!

Get ready for everyone’s favorite winter dance party as the GAI Ratskeller will transform into a glittering Europop disco, bursting with German Karneval hits, dazzling lights, and nonstop dancing. Our live DJ will keep the energy high all night long. Strike your silliest (or fiercest) poses in the photo booth, check your fortune for the new year, and show off your best moves on the dance floor.

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Waltz & Wine Dance Class
Jan
30

Waltz & Wine Dance Class

Join us for a three-week Waltz & Wine series featuring both Intermediate–Advanced Slow & Viennese Waltz (6–7 p.m.) and a Beginner Waltz class (7:15–8:30 p.m.), with expert instruction from Susanne Wagner, Russell Pylkki, Grace Jungers, and Jimi the Polka Pirate.

Build technique and confidence through progressive lessons, enjoy a complimentary beverage each night, and get ready to show off your moves at Karneval Tanzparty. No partner required; intro class and full-series registration options available.

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Immersion Weekend
Jan
30
to Jan 31

Immersion Weekend

Join us for German Immersion Weekend, January 30-31!
Discover groundbreaking inventions from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland —all under one roof! Level B1+ or higher required.

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Waltz & Wine Dance Class
Jan
23

Waltz & Wine Dance Class

Join us for a three-week Waltz & Wine series featuring both Intermediate–Advanced Slow & Viennese Waltz (6–7 p.m.) and a Beginner Waltz class (7:15–8:30 p.m.), with expert instruction from Susanne Wagner, Russell Pylkki, Grace Jungers, and Jimi the Polka Pirate.

Build technique and confidence through progressive lessons, enjoy a complimentary beverage each night, and get ready to show off your moves at Karneval Tanzparty. No partner required; intro class and full-series registration options available.

View Event →
Deutscher Sprachklub
Jan
21

Deutscher Sprachklub

This German language club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency. A variety of topics are presented, and fluency ranges from a working knowledge of German to native speakers.

For more information, contact Helga Parnell, 651-457-1590.

View Event →
GAI Damenklub
Jan
19

GAI Damenklub

The GAI Damenklub (Women’s Club) welcomes all German speaking women who are interested in gathering for Gemütlichkeit and conversation auf Deutsch. The Damen meet at the GAI the third Monday of the month at noon for a potluck lunch and conversation. In addition to regular meetings, the Damenklub hosts Summer Kaffee und Kuchen and they bake and sell Lebkuchen as a GAI fundraiser during the holiday season. Please contact Helga Parnell at 651-457-1590 for details on how to connect with the GAI Damenklub.

View Event →
German Storytime
Jan
18

German Storytime

Join us for Storytime in German, now part of the monthly GAI Café!

Parents of babies, toddlers, and young children can enjoy cake and coffee while meeting other families raising bilingual children.

Bring your little ones for a fun and interactive storytime auf Deutsch! Together, we’ll explore German through lively stories and playful songs that spark imagination, build language skills, and celebrate culture.

View Event →
GAI Café: Rev. John Matthews
Jan
18

GAI Café: Rev. John Matthews

Start your Sunday morning with good company, great coffee, and delicious German cake at the GAI Café, held on the third Sunday of each month from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Germanic-American Institute. Savor homemade and specialty German cakes alongside strong, aromatic coffee, all available for purchase. Whether you come for the cake, the presentation, or simply to catch up with friends, we can’t wait to see you at the GAI Café!

View Event →
Modelleisenbahn Gruppe
Jan
17

Modelleisenbahn Gruppe

The Modelleisenbahn gruppe is group of model railroad hobbyists who enjoy building and operating models of European trains, primarily from German speaking countries. The Gruppe usually meets at the GAI Haus on the third Saturday of each month.

View Event →
Waltz & Wine Dance Class
Jan
16

Waltz & Wine Dance Class

Join us for a three-week Waltz & Wine series featuring both Intermediate–Advanced Slow & Viennese Waltz (6–7 p.m.) and a Beginner Waltz class (7:15–8:30 p.m.), with expert instruction from Susanne Wagner, Russell Pylkki, Grace Jungers, and Jimi the Polka Pirate.

Build technique and confidence through progressive lessons, enjoy a complimentary beverage each night, and get ready to show off your moves at Karneval Tanzparty. No partner required; intro class and full-series registration options available.

View Event →
Game Night (Spieleabend) -CANCELLED
Jan
15

Game Night (Spieleabend) -CANCELLED

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED. Join us next month for Game Night in February!

Join us for our monthly Game Night (Spieleabend)! January will be open play night – bring your favorite game or choose from our library of German and German-style games like CATAN, Dorfromantik, Ticket to Ride, Rummikub and more!

View Event →
Stammtisch Curbside
Jan
13

Stammtisch Curbside

Enjoy a delicious home-cooked German Mittagessen at Stammtisch Curbside! Pick up your meal-to-go at the GAI between 11:30 a.m. and noon. Reservations are required—please call the office at 651-222-7027 or email office@gaimn.org by 3 p.m. on the Wednesday before Stammtisch to reserve your meal.

Das Menü: Meatloaf with mushroom sauce, oven-roasted potatoes, vegetable, dessert

$15 (curbside) includes your meal and dessert.

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Deutscher Sprachklub
Dec
17

Deutscher Sprachklub

This German language club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency. A variety of topics are presented, and fluency ranges from a working knowledge of German to native speakers.

For more information, contact Helga Parnell, 651-457-1590.

View Event →
GAI Damenklub
Dec
15

GAI Damenklub

The GAI Damenklub (Women’s Club) welcomes all German speaking women who are interested in gathering for Gemütlichkeit and conversation auf Deutsch. The Damen meet at the GAI the third Monday of the month at noon for a potluck lunch and conversation. In addition to regular meetings, the Damenklub hosts Summer Kaffee und Kuchen and they bake and sell Lebkuchen as a GAI fundraiser during the holiday season. Please contact Helga Parnell at 651-457-1590 for details on how to connect with the GAI Damenklub.

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Kneipe & Sing-Along
Dec
13

Kneipe & Sing-Along

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to enjoy a beer or glass of Glühwein in the GAI Ratskeller. Drop in throughout the evening—we’ll be singing German Christmas songs and enjoying good cheer in cozy surroundings—the definition of Gemütlichkeit! Beverages and snacks will be available for purchase.

Sing Along Times

  • 4:30-5:00 p.m.

  • 5:30-6:00 p.m.

  • 6:30-7:00 p.m.

Note: The GAI Ratskeller is not ADA Accessible. 

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Stammtisch Curbside (December)
Dec
9

Stammtisch Curbside (December)

Enjoy a delicious home-cooked German Mittagessen at Stammtisch Curbside! Pick up your meal-to-go at the GAI between 11:30 a.m. and noon. Reservations are required—please call the office at 651-222-7027 or email office@gaimn.org by 3 p.m. on the Wednesday before Stammtisch to reserve your meal.

Das Menü: Rouladen, Mashed Potatoes, Red Cabbage, Dessert

$15 (curbside) includes your meal and dessert.

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Christmas in Germany
Dec
6
to Dec 7

Christmas in Germany

Experience the warmth and magic of a German Christmas at the GAI! Toast the season with a beer or warm up with some Glühwein (hot mulled wine), a bratwurst and pretzel, some homemade soup, or a slice of German cake. The Haus will be decorated from the Rathskeller to the ballroom, with music and seasonal goods for sale. Food and drink will be outdoors in our large heated tent. Come celebrate the traditions of a German Christmas with us!

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Game Night (Spieleabend)
Nov
20

Game Night (Spieleabend)

Join us for our monthly Game Night (Spieleabend)! October will be open play night – bring your favorite game or choose from our library of German and German-style games like CATAN, Dorfromantik, Ticket to Ride, Rummikub and more!

View Event →
Deutscher Sprachklub
Nov
19

Deutscher Sprachklub

This German language club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the GAI. Founded in 1979, the Sprachklub offers community members an opportunity to speak German in an informal, congenial setting, regardless of level of proficiency. A variety of topics are presented, and fluency ranges from a working knowledge of German to native speakers.

For more information, contact Helga Parnell, 651-457-1590.

View Event →
GAI Damenklub
Nov
17

GAI Damenklub

The GAI Damenklub (Women’s Club) welcomes all German speaking women who are interested in gathering for Gemütlichkeit and conversation auf Deutsch. The Damen meet at the GAI the third Monday of the month at noon for a potluck lunch and conversation. In addition to regular meetings, the Damenklub hosts Summer Kaffee und Kuchen and they bake and sell Lebkuchen as a GAI fundraiser during the holiday season. Please contact Helga Parnell at 651-457-1590 for details on how to connect with the GAI Damenklub.

View Event →
German Storytime (November)
Nov
16

German Storytime (November)

  • 301 Summit Ave Saint Paul United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for Storytime in German, now part of the monthly GAI Café!

Parents of babies, toddlers, and young children can enjoy cake and coffee while meeting other families raising bilingual children.

Bring your little ones for a fun and interactive storytime auf Deutsch! Together, we’ll explore German through lively stories and playful songs that spark imagination, build language skills, and celebrate culture.

View Event →
GAI Café: Bonhoeffer Exhibit
Nov
16

GAI Café: Bonhoeffer Exhibit

Start your Sunday morning with good company, great coffee, and delicious German cake at the GAI Café, held on the third Sunday of each month from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Germanic-American Institute. Savor homemade and specialty German cakes alongside strong, aromatic coffee, all available for purchase. Whether you come for the cake, the presentation, or simply to catch up with friends, we can’t wait to see you at the GAI Café!

View Event →
Modelleisenbahn Gruppe
Nov
15

Modelleisenbahn Gruppe

The Modelleisenbahn gruppe is group of model railroad hobbyists who enjoy building and operating models of European trains, primarily from German speaking countries. The Gruppe usually meets at the GAI Haus on the third Saturday of each month.

View Event →