First Christopher Street Day in Hildesheim: 3,000 celebrate diversity!

First Christopher Street Day in Hildesheim: 3,000 celebrate diversity!

On June 21, 2025, the first Christopher Street Day (CSD) took place in Hildesheim, a significant event that brought together around 3,000 people to demonstrate for queer life, self-determination and visibility. According to the police, the event, which began on Angoulême Square at the main train station, went off without a hitch. The participants gathered for the kick-off rally at 12:30 p.m., followed by a colorful demonstration that set off into the city center around 1 p.m.

The route led through the pedestrian zone, over Bernwardstrasse and Zingel to the Steingrube, where the final rally took place. Particularly noteworthy is the diversity within the demonstration, which was divided into different thematic blocks. These included the “Bunte Block”, a family block, a block against right-wing agitation and an anti-racist block. Musical atmosphere was also provided: the procession was accompanied by two truck stages that offered a varied music program.

A day of diversity and togetherness

The closing program, which began at around 2 p.m., provided a platform for speeches and information from local initiatives. In a large, barrier-free park, the Steingrube, the participants found space for meetings and exchanges. Information stands and offers for food and drink could be found here. The police accompanied the event with several emergency services and announced that there were no significant disruptions. The meeting officially ended at 6:15 p.m., but the majority of participants had already made their way to the train station and the city center beforehand.

The high level of participation and the broad alliance of queer groups, parties and civil society initiatives shows that Hildesheim wants to set a strong example for diversity and tolerance. Organizationally, the event was well looked after - there were helping hands for the set-up, the technology and the awareness measures called for by the organizers.

The origin of Christopher Street Day

The history of the CSD is deeply rooted in the emancipation movement. It all started in 1969 in New York City, when there was a violent riot against a police raid at the Stonewall Inn. This uprising is considered a turning point in the history of homosexual emancipation. To mark the one-year anniversary of the riots, the first parades were held in 1970, creating the basis for what we know today as Christopher Street Day. In Germany, the first CSD parade took place in Berlin in 1979, and the CSD has developed significantly since then, which can be seen not least in the large number of participants and supporters: from political parties and trade unions to anti-racist and feminist groups. This diversity is also reflected in the Hildesheim event, which hopes to be held regularly in the future.

The successful premiere of the Hildesheim CSD gives hope for a growing awareness of the concerns of the queer community and shows that the city has a good knack for diversity and respectful coexistence. The enthusiasm and positive response indicate that the CSD was more than just a one-off event - it is the beginning of a new tradition in Hildesheim.