The Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg in Parktown was buzzing with German music and culture for the school’s 116th annual Schulbasar, which took place on May 30.

Families not only enjoyed sausages, tender meats, potatoes, and world-class bread in warm weather, but showed up in German inspired fashion. Children were treated to jumping castle, games and swings for the day.

The first Schulbasar, a fun fair based on the Hamburger ‘Dom’, took place in 1905.

In the following years, particularly between World War I and II, little attention was paid to the Schulbasar due to the prevailing social and political conditions, but the Schulbasar has once again seen a rise in popularity, offering something for all ages, making the ultimate German experience a unique event.

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Isabella Waywell, a matriculant at the school, said she has attended the social event since the age of 3. “It’s one of the social events I don’t miss here at school. I enjoy dressing up and looking the part for the Schulbasar.”

Thandiee Malaza, a grandparent at the school, said she has been attending the Schulbasar since her granddaughters were in Grade 0.

“I enjoy the Schulbasar, not only because my granddaughters’ school here, but because I have German relatives, so I am used to such events, which are an important part of the German people.”

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