Welcome to Around the World, a special section hosted by the Greater Hickory International Council. In each upcoming issue, we will focus on a different country. Hopefully one day you will be able to travel to these countries or learn a foreign language in your school. You can also home host an exchange student that is visiting your school from another country and learn about their life back home and how it compares to yours.
This Issue’s Country Spotlight: Germany
There is a long history of German culture and heritage in our region. There are many German people and German businesses in the area where we live. Did you know that we even have a region-to-region Sister Cities partnership with Germany? The Altenburger Land region in Germany has a Sister Cities partnership with the Greater Hickory region, which includes Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba counties. Students in these four counties can participate in fun programs and exchanges between the schools here and in Germany.
Capital of Germany: Berlin
Germany’s National Flower: Cornflower
Official Language: German. Did you know that German is the official language of Germany, Austria and it is also one of the official recognized languages of Switzerland?
German Flag Colors: Black, Red, & Gold
Currency Used: The Euro
Popular German Food: Wursts, Sauerkraut, Schnitzel, Saurbraten, Rouladen, Fresh Baked Pretzels
Did You Know? The Neuschwanstein Castle is the most visited castle in Germany. What makes it so popular for Americans is that it was also used for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle, the big castle you might have seen if you have ever been to Disneyworld in Florida for your vacation.
Upcoming International Regional Events:
- Youth International Film Festival, on Wednesday, September 21 from 6pm-8pm at the Hickory Community Theatre for families with students in grades 4th-8th. Filmmakers from around the world have created international films to share with students. You can vote for your favorite film. Visit footcandlefilmfestival.com for more info.
- Oktoberfest, a celebration of learning German heritage, cultures and customs with your family and friends on October 7-9 in downtown Hickory. (https://downtownhickory.com/oktoberfest/)
For more information on international programs and events in our area, visit www.hickoryinternationalcouncil.com.