Our Work
How we are preserving history in Cleveland.
German - American Day
In 1983, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October 6 as German-American Day to celebrate and honor the 300th anniversary of German immigration to and culture in the United States. Each year, VIVA Bavaria proudly hosts German Day Cleveland to celebrate the occasion.
The Forgotten Story
Since our founding, we have been documenting the history of older immigrant members of the German community in the Greater Cleveland area, called The Forgotten Story. Many older Germans, including eight of the directors’ parents, were either refugee or lived in Germany before, during and after World War II. These forefathers have rich stories to tell and unless we begin capturing these stories, they will be lost forever.
Christkindlmarkt
Originated in Germany, a Christkindlmarkt is a Christmas-themed street market traditionally held outdoors in the town square. At ours, you’ll find food, drink, and seasonal items from open-air booths, accompanied by holiday-themed entertainment.
Festgedächtnis Gottesdienst
The Festive Remembers aims to give thanks and honor to all Americans of German descent in the greater Cleveland area. The mass will be in the German language and we encourage any members of your group who attend the Mass to wear their formal attire or costume.