Steinmeier invites volunteers to New Year's reception - Germany’s President Honors 60 Volunteers at Bellevue Palace Reception
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife, Elke Büdenbender, will honour 60 volunteers at a special New Year’s reception. The main event takes place at Bellevue Palace in Berlin on January 9, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM. Media attendance is open but requires prior registration through Eventbrite.
The reception will bring together volunteers from all 16 federal states. Each guest was selected for their outstanding civic contributions. After a formal welcome, the president and his wife will personally greet attendees in a reception line.
Following the ceremony, a luncheon will be held in the palace’s Grand Hall. The meal offers a chance for the volunteers to meet representatives from politics, business, trade unions, culture, and local volunteering. Steinmeier and Büdenbender intend the event as a gesture of thanks for the guests’ dedication to public service. While the names of the volunteers remain undisclosed, the event highlights their collective impact. The president’s office has emphasised the importance of recognising unsung efforts across the country. Media coverage will focus on the broader significance of volunteer work in Germany.
The New Year’s reception at Bellevue Palace will conclude with a luncheon for the honoured guests. The gathering underscores the role of volunteers in supporting communities nationwide. Organisers have confirmed that similar events may follow in future years.
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