DANK Haus German American Cultural Center

Mid-May Newsletter

Vielen Dank to everyone who attended our Gala on May 3rd--A Night on the Red Carpet was an incredible evening filled with glamour, community, and celebration!

From red carpet arrivals to heartfelt moments and lively entertainment, the night was a true reflection of the spirit that makes the DANK Haus so special.

Relive the magic and check out our video recap and photo album from the night of the Gala!

Eurovision Watch Party

Saturday, May 17 from 2-6 PM

Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of music, glitter, and global flair at our Eurovision 2025 Watch Party! Join us as we stream the Grand Final live and cheer on your favorite acts with fellow fans.

Whether you're a die-hard Eurovision enthusiast or just in it for the spectacle, all are welcome. Bring your family, friends, and bring your best Eurovision spirit!

Karaoke Stammtisch Open Haus

Friday, May 16 | 7:30–11:00 PM

Get ready for a night of music and Gemütlichkeit! Whether you're singing Helene Fischer or Bon Jovi, it's your time to shine.

Not a singer? No worries—come for the vibes, cheer on friends, and connect over drinks and laughs.

Döner from Döner 97 and bar drinks will be available for purchase!

Please register in advance to help us gauge attendance.

Neighborhood Nights at the DANK Haus

May 22 | 7:00 - 11:00 PM

Join us for a relaxed evening of drinks, conversation, and community! Whether you're looking to practice your German, meet new people, or just wind down after a long day, this is the place to be.

We're excited to introduce Skat, the classic German card game beloved across generations. Never played? No problem—enthusiasts will be on hand to teach and play with newcomers!

Become a member of the Skyline Circle

Donors who give $1,000+ in 2024 will become members of our Skyline Circle and receive invitations to our special donors events as well as complimentary Friends of DANK Haus membership! For just $84 per month you can join this important giving society at the DANK HAUS!

Summer Camp 2025: Adventure Awaits!

Get ready for a summer full of fun, learning, and adventure! Our Summer Camps welcome kids ages 3-9. Led by native German-speaking teachers, your child will dive into an exciting world of hands-on projects, experiments, arts and crafts, and daily field trips -- all while practicing their German in an immersive setting. No German experience needed--just a love for exploration and new friendships!

Bühne Frei!

An Acting & Language Workshop

Mondays, July 7 – August 4

Step on stage and strengthen your German! This fun, interactive class uses acting, role-play, and scene work to help boost your speaking confidence, pronunciation, and vocabulary — all in a supportive, creative space.

Perfect for A2-level learners and up, no acting experience needed — just a willingness to speak, play, and make mistakes!

Help us spread the word!

If you love being a part of the DANK Haus Kinderschule community, we'd be so grateful if you took a moment to leave us a review on Niche. Your feedback helps other families discover our unique German immersion program and vibrant learning environment.

Vielen Dank for your support!

Calling all Volunteers!

Maifest 2025

Maifest is one of the biggest and most beloved celebrations of the year--and we need your help to make it happen!

We're looking for friendly faces to help out at our DANK Haus info booth, where you'll greet visitors, answer questions, and share what makes our community so special.

Maifest 2025 | Lincoln Square

May 29 – June 1

Join us for one of Chicago’s most beloved traditions — Maifest in Lincoln Square is back for its 26th year! Come visit the DANK Haus info booth and celebrate with us through food, dancing, live music, and — as always — plenty of German Gemütlichkeit.

Prost to summer fun and community spirit!

Staff Pick from Heidi

Discover the History of Maifest!

As we all gear up for the 26th Annual Maifest here in Lincoln Square, take a moment to explore the rich traditions behind this beloved spring festival. From the iconic maypole to the vibrant celebrations in Lincoln Square, learn how Maifest has become a cornerstone of Chicago's German American heritage!

Staff Pick from Carina

Delve into the DANK Haus Library!

Did you know that the DANK Haus has a library with over 3,500 books--including rare and out-of-print German works you won't find anywhere else?

From fiction and children's book to history, poetry, and language learning, there's something for everyone. Come check it out and find your next read!