Sunday was a truly special day for Cologne as the city celebrated unity and equality during Christopher Street Day (CSD). This year, over 300 groups and more than 1 million people took to the streets, showcasing a powerful display of solidarity and freedom. Typically held at the beginning of July, this year’s event was delayed due to the EURO 2024 Football Championship. As part of the ColognePride festival, CSD provides the LGBTQ+ community with a platform to celebrate their love, freedom, and unity. The parade route featured music, colorful floats, and the distribution of informative materials.

For me, it was my first time attending such a big parade, having only experienced the Warsaw LGBTQ+ parade before, which is not even half the size of Cologne’s CSD. The energy and vibrancy of Cologne’s event were unparalleled. I was thrilled to be part of this magnificent celebration, witnessing firsthand the beauty of diversity and acceptance. The unity among the participants and the overwhelming support from the spectators were truly inspiring. I am happy to celebrate my freedom and love together with all the beautiful people from around the world. This experience has left a lasting impression on me, reinforcing the importance of such events in promoting equality and understanding.