11 Things To See at Berlin's Pride Parade

Victory Column

The city's impressive Siegessäule (Victory Column) is dedicated to memories of war and victory, but also frequently represents Berlin's gay community. The premier queer online magazine out of Berlin has the same name, Siegessäule, and nude sunbathing in nearby Tiergarten park is heartily enjoyed by the LGBT community. As one of the main points of the parade, the "Chick on the Stick" is a focal point.

Parade Vehicles

Rather than floats, Berlin's CSD parade has big trucks and buses. Loaded with boozy partiers, political parties, or just a party, each bus booms its own electronic and pop jams as a rowdy crowd dances in, on, and around the bus. Spectators are welcome to join the group of their choosing with popular vehicles trailing a following of dancers.

Rainbow Flags

The ubiquitous rainbow flag will proudly be on display. Bring your own, pick one up at the parade, or dress as a full body rainbow.

LGBT Protests

Besides a great party, CSD helps push forward important issues for the entire LGBT(QIA+) community. This often includes active protests, demonstrations, or pointed signs about the state of current politics. 

For less show more action, pay attention to the full CSD program for demonstrations and themes.

Another type of Lederhosen

English speakers may not realize that Lederhosen simply translates to "leather pants". While the word may conjure up quaint images of Bavarian tracht (traditional clothing) and Oktoberfest, Berlin Lederhosen looks a bit different. The leatherware featured at CSD is often black, tight and strappy.

Elaborate Costumes

Everything from Disney princesses to Wizard of Oz are on display during the parade. And along with straight up recreations of famous outfits, there are just as many one-of-a-kind outfits straight out of a David Bowie/Peaches fantasy. What do you want to be for CSD?

Nudity

Along with those that put on a wild outfit to stand out, are those that are wearing nothing and yet still make an impression. This is the chance for everyone's freaky side to be on display.

Germans are famously indifferent to nudity. Expect to see some "private parts" come out swinging on CSD.

Freebies!

Along with the music pumping out of the buses, freebies are tossed at the adoring crowds. These range from stickers to balloons to condoms to paraphernalia from sponsors ranging from the Dildo King to German political parties. So, a little something for everyone.

Fetish Scenes

Chains and leather muzzles are rarely seen in the bright light of a summer day...except on Berlin's CSD. Fetish ware is completely acceptable attire at Berlin's Pride Parade.

Feel free to take pictures (most players are ready to perform during the many stops on the parade), but be respectful. This is the day to celebrate what makes everyone different without ridicule.

Police

The polizei are out in force like for Erster Mai in Berlin, but the vibe is decidedly different. Safety is a top concern and they peaceably amble along the parade route watching for people out of control and help sweep away the debris of a big glittery gay parade.

End of the Parade

Before you know it, the parade has come to an end with the last of the spectators shuffling along behind. In typical German fashion, the clean-up crew is only a few meters behind picking up bottles and sweeping the street.

Within a few hours of thousands of people partying down the street, it's like nothing even happened...except at Brandenburger Tor where the official party continues on after the parade.