Top Event
Queer pride festival in Berlin
Christopher Street Day (CSD) in Berlin is an annual celebration of diversity, equality and pride that draws hundreds of thousands of people each year. One of the largest LGBTQIA+ festivals in Europe, the CSD festival is known for its colourful parades, political statements and focus on inclusivity. The event commemorates the Stonewall Uprising of 1969, a defining moment in LGBTQIA+ history, and continues to fight for equal rights for all.
Christopher Street Day at a glance
Each year, the streets of Berlin burst into a sea of rainbow flags, music and joyous celebration as the CSD Parade winds its way through the city. But beyond the festive atmosphere, CSD is deeply rooted in political activism. The event serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for LGBTQIA+ rights and equality.
The parade kicks off near Leipziger Straße and Spittelmarkt and passes through historic spots like Nollendorfplatz, an urban landmark in Berlin's queer history. The route is often filled with floats, performances and speeches that combine celebration with calls for social justice.
Christopher Street Day highlights
- Intersectional focus: Each year, the CSD festival highlights specific topics such as 'Queerness and Religion' or 'Queerness in Eastern Germany', promoting inclusivity across multiple identities.
- Historic route: The parade route includes significant queer landmarks, such as Nollendorfplatz, which has a rich LGBTQIA+ history.
- Cultural events: Visitors can expect a variety of performances, film screenings and discussion panels.
- Massive turnout: CSD regularly attracts around half a million participants, making it one of the most significant pride events in Europe.
- Grand finale concert: The CSD festivities conclude with a massive concert featuring celebrated musicians who use their platform to advocate for tolerance and inclusivity.
Discover Christopher Street Day
CSD traces its roots back to the Stonewall Uprising in New York City in 1969, when members of the LGBTQIA+ community stood up against police violence at the Stonewall Inn, a bar located on Christopher Street. This marked the beginning of the modern LGBTQIA+ rights movement. In Berlin, the first CSD took place in 1979, and it has grown exponentially since then.
Berlin's CSD is also serves as a platform to address current political and social issues affecting the LGBTQIA+ community, such as the need for updated laws on transgender rights, the removal of discriminatory bans on blood donations by gay and bisexual men and greater visibility in media and advertising.
Top tips for Christopher Street Day
- The CSD Parade is the main event, usually held on a Saturday. Arrive early to secure a good spot along the route, especially around Nollendorfplatz or the Victory Column.
- Don't miss Pride Village, the official closing celebration of the CSD festival, where top musicians perform in support of the LGBTQIA+ community.
- Many parts of the parade route and related events are wheelchair accessible. Berlin's public transport system offers accessibility for people with disabilities at many stations near the route.
- CSD is easy to reach using public transport. The parade usually starts near Leipziger Straße and Spittelmarkt, both accessible via buses and the underground.
- Join in the discussions, parties and community events at Berlin Pride Month, which takes place during the four weeks leading up to the CSD celebrations.
Additional information
Dates
July 2025
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