German-speaking Community Day
Historical Context
German-speaking Community Day falls on 15 November every year. It is not a federal public holiday, but it is the official holiday of the German-speaking Community, recognised by decree since 1990. Government employees of the German-speaking Community have a day off, other workers do not.
The German-speaking Community Day on 15 November celebrates the autonomy and culture of the German-speaking Community in eastern Belgium. The date coincides with the King's Feast, celebrated on 15 November in honour of the feast day of Saint Leopold. The German-speaking Community gained its own cultural autonomy in 1983.
In the Eastern Cantons, official ceremonies, concerts and cultural events are organised for the community holiday. Local associations and schools take part in festive activities showcasing the German-speaking identity and culture. It is a day of pride for the approximately 80,000 residents of the German-speaking region of Belgium.