Culture Club
by Jeannine Gage
On many evenings, lively music spills out from a five-acre property on Orange Lane in Casselberry. Sometimes it’s the brassy punch of a Bavarian polka; other times it’s the smooth swing of a big band. Either way, the dance floor is full, the beer is flowing, and the sense of camaraderie is unmistakable.
This is the German American Society of Central Florida – better known to locals as the German American Club – and for more than 60 years it has been a home for culture, celebration, and connection.
Founded in 1963 by a group of German immigrants, the nonprofit club began as a way for its members to find community in a new country.
“A lot of the social clubs started back then were to find companionship with other expats,” says Linda Rossel, the club’s president.
In its early days, meetings were held at the old Angebilt Hotel in downtown Orlando. The clubhouse in Casselberry opened in 1972, with an ongoing mission to preserve traditions and provide a welcoming gathering place.
Today, with more than 500 members, the club is a lively hub for Germans and non-Germans alike, offering two to three events every month.
“You don’t need to be German to be a member – you just have to want to have fun,” says Linda.
Prost to Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is, unsurprisingly, the marquee celebration, drawing 3,500 to 6,500 guests over two days each October.
This year’s event will be held on Saturday, October 4 and Saturday, October 25. The clubhouse grounds will become one giant beer garden, with nonstop entertainment, hearty German food made in-house, a bounce house and games for children, and traditional German garb sported by attendees. Admission is $7 in advance ($10 at the gate) and is free for kids 11 and under.
The club’s calendar stretches far beyond Oktoberfest, though. There are other events such as Springtoberfest, which recently expanded into Spring Fest International, showcasing Irish dancers, Slovenian music, and other European traditions. There’s a luau, a wine festival, and on the first Saturday of each month, a popular big band night featuring a free dance lesson and live swing music by The Great American Big Band.
“We get people from age 20 to 90. Everyone dances; it’s fantastic,” says Linda. “These events help get younger people in and they see how great it is, and that helps to sustain the club.”
Willkommen to All
Vice president Fran Gutterman discovered the German American Club when her husband, a health inspector, visited ahead of an Oktoberfest.
“They invited us to come, and we’ve been members ever since,” she says. “After a while, just going to a bar doesn’t cut it. Here, there’s live entertainment, you meet new people, and you learn about traditions.”
That spirit of inclusion has been key to the club’s longevity. Anna Cornell, who is Italian, has been a member for nearly 50 years.
“Everyone has been so good to me,” says Anna. “It’s such a good deal – $40 a year, four free luncheons, and all the events are so much fun.”
Looking ahead, Linda hopes to expand the club’s family-friendly activities. Additional cultural offerings including German language classes are also in the works.
Most importantly, the club will continue to be the cultural bridge that its founders intended.
“We want to be the destination to showcase European cultures,” says Linda. “It’s about connection – to your heritage, to your neighbors, and to having a good time.”
To learn more, visit OrlandoGermanClub.com.