Germany from September 2024: what changed

September 2024 in Germany is set to be packed with events touching on various areas of life — from politics and economics to culture and sport (we are talking about Oktoberfest). In this digest, we have gathered the most important and interesting news of the month for you. You will learn about political decisions, significant economic trends affecting everyday life, and cultural events. Read on to stay informed about the key events of September and understand how they might affect you and your life.

Landtag elections in Saxony, Thuringia and Brandenburg

Elections to the Landtag (regional parliament) will take place in Saxony and Thuringia on 1 September, and in Brandenburg on 22 September. Also, on 9 September, the Bundestag will gather for its first session after the summer recess.

75th anniversary of the Bundestag

In September 2024, the Bundestag is celebrating the 75th anniversary of its first sitting. To mark this occasion, a Bürgerfest will be held on the 6th and 7th of September, bringing together various cultural events, exhibitions and panel discussions.

New Euro 6e environmental standard

From September 1st, the new Euro 6e environmental standard will come into force in Germany, applying to all vehicles registered after this date. This standard introduces stricter measurement procedures, although the emission limit values remain unchanged.

Oktoberfest 2024

The world-famous Oktoberfest in Munich will begin on 21 September and run until 6 October 2024. Visitors can look forward to traditional beer tents, parades, concerts and other events. Millions of guests from all over the world are expected to take part.

Cancellation of mandatory seat reservations on intercity routes

From September 1, Deutsche Bahn is cancelling the mandatory seat reservation requirement on long-distance routes. This requirement was introduced in connection with the European Football Championship.

Tax return deadline

The deadline for filing the 2023 tax return for self-filers is 2 September.

Ban on the sale of “R 44” standard child car seats

From September, the sale of “R 44” standard child car seats will be banned in Germany, as they no longer meet modern safety requirements. The new “R 129” standard provides a higher level of protection for children in cars.

Cessation of cash ticket sales on Berlin buses

From September, it will no longer be possible to pay for tickets with cash on Berlin buses. This innovation is aimed at simplifying and speeding up the payment process.

Changes to the Disney+ platform

From September, Disney+ is introducing a ban on account sharing. Streaming service owners are continuing their efforts to crack down on users employing various tricks to save money.

Samsung is ending support for the Tizen operating system

Samsung is discontinuing support and releasing no further updates for smartwatch models running the “Tizen” operating system.

Microsoft is ending support for legacy applications

From September 2024, Microsoft is ending support for a number of legacy applications, such as Office 2016, Office 2019 and others. Users are advised to upgrade to newer versions to avoid security issues and continue receiving updates. More detailed information can be found on the Microsoft website.

Lollapalooza Festival

On September 7 and 8, the Lollapalooza festival will take place in Berlin. Among more than 30 artists, performances are expected from Sam Smith, Martin Garrix, Burna Boy, as well as the K-pop group Seventeen, who will be performing in Europe for the first time.

Testing of alert systems

On 14 September at 11:00, an alert system test will take place across Germany, which is conducted annually to improve preparedness for emergencies.

Consent to or refusal of organ donation via the app

By the end of September, it will be possible to submit an application or opt out of organ donation through your health insurance app.

Coronavirus pandemic aid reports

Companies that received assistance during the coronavirus pandemic must submit their final reports with the help of a lawyer or tax advisor by 30 September.

Rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage

From 1 September 2024, strict rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage will once again apply at German airports: liquids are permitted in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag with a capacity of up to one litre.