Frank Zander’s Christmas dinner is not just any holiday gathering; it’s a tradition rooted deeply within the Berlin community. For 30 years, the legendary entertainer and his family have hosted this festive event for homeless individuals and those in need, continuously growing the scope of their generosity. On December 21, this yearly feast will return to the Estrel Hotel in Neukölln, catering to around 2,500 guests who have eagerly anticipated this occasion.
At 82 years old, Frank Zander has dedicated himself to serving those less fortunate, inviting many prominent figures to join him and assist with the preparations. This year, after his recent illness, attendees will welcome back Zander himself, marking his personal involvement as both inspiring and uplifting for the guests. The pressure mounts as the date nears, with Zander’s son, Marcus, confirming the family's shared excitement mixed with the stress of organizing such a sizable event. Yet, fresh challenges have emerged just days before the banquet.
Animal rights organization PETA has entered the spotlight, publicly advocating for Zander to serve only vegan meals at this year's dinner.
Historically, the feast has featured traditional holiday fare, including goose legs, red cabbage, and dumplings. PETA's push for vegetarian options aims to eliminate animal suffering, promoting their initiative as being more compassionate and environmentally friendly.
Lisa Kainz, a nutrition and agriculture expert at PETA Germany, spoke passionately about the need for change, stating, "It is wonderful to see Frank Zander providing homeless individuals with beautiful Christmas meals, yet countless geese suffer before they are slaughtered for this meal. To make Christmas truly inclusive for all beings, we proposed Mr. Zander serve only vegan dishes." Kainz emphasized the organization’s concern is not solely about humane treatment but also encompasses broader climate and environmental effects associated with meat consumption.
PETA went as far as offering assistance, hoping to present contact details for a vegan chef who could aid in crafting this proposed menu. Kainz concluded her remarks positively, noting, “Holding this dinner without animal suffering would portray compassion and unity with all living beings, which aligns with the spirit of Christmas.”
Yet, the focus on PETA's recent press release drew immediate backlash from Zander's family. Marcus Zander firmly voiced his concerns over the timing of PETA's media push just one week before the event, feeling the pressure as officials prepare to execute their plans. "We are under significant stress making sure the celebration goes smoothly," he noted. "This is really more important than the letter we received from PETA." He added, "It feels unfair to make such demands now, and I can’t respond meaningfully since the dinner is so close."
Emphasizing his commitment to the guests over outside influences, Marcus indicated they would ask attendees about their meal preferences. He stated, "If one-third of them are for serving only vegan meals, we would certainly look to accommodate their wishes." While he acknowledged and somewhat respected PETA's stance, prioritizing the enjoyment and satisfaction of their guests remains foremost on his mind. The urgency surrounding preparations appears more pressing than the request for potential dietary changes.
Frank Zander's Christmas dinner event remains pivotal; it not only serves to nourish those who often go without but also highlights the delicate balance between tradition and modern ethics as seen through PETA's intervention. With each side holding firm to their principles, the upcoming celebration stands as much more than just another dinner; it encapsulates the essence and diverging views of compassion—be it for fellow humans or animals.
Undoubtedly, the joy of gathering over shared meals can counteract the bitterness of disputes. Nonetheless, as this year’s festivities approach, both the committed and those advocating for change will be watching closely to see how Frank Zander resolves this culinary quandary.
