Berlin Pride 2023

If you’re planning to visit the vibrant capital of Germany, you should definitely go around Pride time. Berlin has long been at the forefront of LGBTQIA+ rights and acceptance, with a rich history of queer activism and liberation. It was in Berlin that pioneering organizations like Magnus Hirschfeld’s Institute for Sexual Science flourished in the early 20th century, and the city continues to be a haven for the queer community nowadays. This year, Pride Month Berlin will focus on five important topics: HIV/Aids, rainbow families, safer spaces for TIN/Bi+/Poly, and Eastern Europe.

So let’s have a kiki about what you need to know about Berlin Pride, including dates and locations, a list of events and parties planned for this year, and how to get around in the city. In addition, we’ll show you how to save and make the most of your money using Wise, an international debit card.

When is Berlin Pride 2024?

Pride Month Berlin will be celebrated for the second time this year and is a festival that lasts for many days packed with entertaining events like conferences, panel, discussions, a bunch of events and parties including the Berlin Pride parade, also known as Christopher Street Day (CSD). The overall program kicks off from 28 of June, the historic Stonewall Day, until 23 of July¹

When is the Berlin Pride parade 2024 happening

The cherry on top of the cake is the Berlin Parade, a colourful and lively event where you can show the pride of being who you are. Berlin Pride Parade, also known as Christopher Street Day (CSD), is on 22 of July, and it is the culmination of a month of celebration. It starts from noon, and it goes till around midnight.²

Where is the Berlin Pride Parade Happening

Under the motto of more empathy and solidarity, the Parade will move from 12 PM from Leipziger Straße/Spittelmarkt corner through Mitte to the Bundesrat and Postdamer Platz. After that, they turn towards Schöneberg and Nollendorfplatz. Next it goes to the Victory Column and finally end on Straße des 17. Juni. Around 4:30 PM, the first vehicles and foot groups reach the end area with the destination of the Brandeburg Gate. A diverse final rally will take place there on the stage - with speeches as well as artistic and musical acts, ending around midnight.²

Berlin Pride Events 2024

Apart from the aforementioned Berlin Parade, a lot of diverse events are held during Berlin Pride. The agenda is full of theatre, film, music, visual arts, talks and debates, and other programs for you to enjoy. Let’s have a more detailed look on some events for 2024.

Opening Party Pride Berlin Month - with Queens Against Borders

An amazing group called Queens against borders will create and host the opening celebration of the Pride Month Berlin on June 28, 2024. QAB is urging support for LGBTQIA+ refugees from a variety of nations, including Syria, Iraq, Tunisia, Singapore, Brazil, Egypt, and others. Discussions, DJs, and different dance performances provide insight into the emotional and practical worlds of the performers. A fun-filled evening with deep significance! Free entrance starting from 6 PM.³

Girls Town - The Official FLINTA* Pride Party

Girls Town is the official FLINTA* party of the CSD in Berlin for the first time!

From 6 PM, Saturday, after the CSD demonstration you can stop off directly to the huge terrace of Spindler & Klatt that opens with a view of the Spree. An outdoor bar and a dance floor on the terrace (until 10 PM) - that's Berlin Pride Feeling. There are two indoor floors and plenty of space for joyful dances and encounters.⁴

Official Pride Party: House of Pride

The Berlin CSD teams up with club Ritter Butzke for the House of Pride for the second consecutive year, with 7 different rooms for you to choose from. The Berlin CSD e.V. is varied, imaginative, and inclusive. There, all the letters from the queer community converge. Get ready for a night of unapologetic queer extravagance, where the beats are banging, and the vibes are fierce. It starts from 9 pm at Ritter Butzke, Ritterstraße 23 in Berlin!⁵

LGBTQ+ Friendly Bars in Berlin/Events at LGBTQ+ Bars/Clubs

If you're looking for a taste of queer nightlife in Berlin, you're in for a treat. The Berlin LGBTQ+ scene is immense and full of bars and clubs that you can go to let your body move through the music. Especially in the pride week, the city has a ton of queer events and parties, so let’s take a look at some of these options.

SchuwZ

This iconic queer institution is a must-visit for all you fierce individuals. SchwuZ is known for its diverse crowd and killer drag shows that will have you gagging for more. During Pride, expect special events like drag competitions, themed parties, and electrifying DJ sets that will keep you dancing until dawn.

Berghain/Panorama Bar

Now, we can't talk about Berlin nightlife without mentioning the infamous Berghain. Get ready for an immersive and hedonistic experience with mind-blowing music and a strict door policy. This temple of techno music welcomes all with open arms, and its wild parties are the stuff of legends. Queer, straight, or anything in between, you're sure to get lost in the music and find yourself in a state of pure bliss.

Prinzknecht

Prinzknecht, a roomy, stylishly brick-walled bar with a defiantly darkened basement, has a somewhat rural vibe in terms of both music and clientele. However, with a 2-for-1 drink special on Wednesdays for a period of two hours, it's ideal as a late afternoon start to a night of real cruising.

Suicide Circus

Brace yourselves for a night of electrifying beats and pure techno madness at Suicide Circus. This beloved club attracts a diverse crowd of music enthusiasts, including the LGBTQIA+ community. Dance to pulsating rhythms, immerse yourself in immersive light shows, and let the music take control.

Getting around Berlin for Pride

Getting around Berlin during Pride is a breeze. The city offers a well-connected public transport system, pedestrian-friendly streets, and cycling options that make getting from point A to point B a fabulous adventure.

Getting from Airports to City Centre

Berlin has two main airports: Tegel Airport (TXL) and Schönefeld Airport (SXF). Both airports offer various transport options. From TXL, you can hop on the TXL bus, which takes you directly to the city centre, including popular areas like Alexanderplatz and Hauptbahnhof (Central Station). The bus ride typically takes around 30 minutes. From SXF, you can take the Airport Express (RE7 or RB14) or S-Bahn (S9) trains reaching the city centre. These trains connect you to major stations like Alexanderplatz, Friedrichstraße, and Hauptbahnhof. The journey usually takes around 30–40 minutes.

You can also hire a cab or ride-hailing services, if you prefer something more quick and direct, although this choice is obviously more expensive. Additionally, using Wise, a multi-currency account, to pay for your transportation can come in handy. You may exchange your British pounds (GBP) for euros (EUR) with Wise at the mid-market exchange rate, which is the most equitable and open rate available. Additionally, Wise provides a virtual card option that enables you to make contactless purchases simply and securely while travelling. Easy peasy.

Getting around the city centre

Once you're in the heart of Berlin, there are several convenient ways to navigate the city, either by walking, cycling or with public transportation. Berlin is a bike-friendly city, with numerous cycling lanes and rental options available. You can rent bicycles from various providers and pedal your way through the city, enjoying the sights. It is also a walker’s paradise. Take a leisurely stroll through the city centre, explore vibrant neighbourhoods like Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg, and soak up the atmosphere while discovering hidden gems along the way.

In case you’re travelling long distances, Berlin's public transport system is extensive and efficient. You can use buses, trams, S-Bahn (suburban trains), and U-Bahn (underground trains) to reach your desired destinations. A popular option for tourists is the Berlin WelcomeCard, available for 48 hours, 72 hours, or longer durations for 4, 5, or 6 days. This card provides unlimited travel on public transport within specific zones and offers discounts for various attractions.⁶

Money for here, there and everywhere: meet Wise

Wise has got your back during Pride. There is no place for prejudice or concerns about money management in this vibrant celebration of love and freedom. Because of its reasonable exchange rates and cheap costs, Wise makes it simple to send and receive money worldwide. Whether you're voguing on the dance floor, sipping cocktails with other great souls, or immersing yourself in Berlin's thriving LGBTQ+ culture, Wise is here for you.

Please see the Terms of Usefor your region or visit Wise Fees & Pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.

Sources used:

1. CSD Berlin - Berlin Pride
2. CSD Berlin - Demonstration
3. CSD Berlin - Opening Party Pride Month Berlin
4. CSD Berlin - Girls Town
5. CSD Berlin - Official Pride Party
6. Berlin WelcomeCard

Sources last checked on date: 27-June-2023