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35 years of unity: celebrations at the former border crossing in Lübeck
On October 3, 2025, Lübeck will celebrate the 35th anniversary of unity with a colorful program at the border documentation center.
35 years of unity: celebrations at the former border crossing in Lübeck
On October 3, 2025, the 35th anniversary of German unity will be celebrated in style, at the former Lübeck-Schlutup border crossing. This place has a special history because until 1990 it was the northernmost border crossing between the Federal Republic of Germany and the GDR. The celebrations begin early in the morning with a joint church service at 10:00 a.m., followed by a conversation with Lübeck's mayor, Jan Lindenau, and the deputy mayor of Selmsdorf, Gabriela Rumpf. Here they report on the memories of the division and the significance of the reunification process.
The day is filled with a colorful program: In addition to musical contributions from a shanty choir and musicians from the federal police, various artistic performances are also planned. Whether plays, films or slam texts – there is something for everyone here. A highlight awaits guests in the evening at 8 p.m. - the Lübeck band “Pudeldame” will play at the border documentation center to round off the celebration.
Remembering the division
The region around Lübeck-Schlutup has a deep-rooted history in the context of the division of Germany. The border once ran from the Baltic Sea to Lake Ratzeburg, often along the Trave and Wakenitz rivers. The Lübeck-Schlutup Border Documentation Site Association has been intensively committed to the preservation of this place since 2004 and commemorates the stories of escape and the joy of reunification on November 9, 1989. The history of division and small-scale border traffic is documented in the former customs clearance building, with a particular focus on personal fates.
Visitors can experience the exhibition about the past, which is also considered the cradle of the Federal Border Guard. Here the people who lived on this historical dividing line are given a face. On October 3rd, the border documentation site will be open to anyone interested from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and tours are available upon request for groups of ten or more people.
A place for reflection
The memory of the division of Germany is not only a piece of history, but also still shapes how we live together today. Many people, including tourists, come to the region to confront their own past and understand the journey of unity. Places like Lübeck or special memorial sites and museums that provide information about the time of division are important contact points for this reflection.
The celebrations on October 3rd are not only a celebration, but also an opportunity to pause and become aware of the challenges and successes of the last 35 years. Together with the music and the community, this day will bring a unique piece of German history to life.