Diversity in Berlin
Berlin’s cultural landscape is woven from global influences, social movements and community-driven initiatives. From vibrant street festivals to year-round programs tackling prejudice and celebrating sidelined voices, the city offers a dynamic environment where diversity is not only acknowledged but embraced.
Karneval der Kulturen
Held each year in Berlin, Karneval der Kulturen is a four-day multicultural festival that has grown since 1996 into one of Germany's largest street events:
- Attracts nearly 6,000 performers and more than half a million visitors each year
- Features parades, theater, music, dance, gastronomy and political expression
- Celebrates peace, tolerance and Berlin's post-migrant traditions
As one of Europe's largest LGBTQIA+ pride festivals, Berlin's CSD commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Uprising while blending activism with celebration:
- Includes political parades, concerts and city-wide cultural programming
- Promotes LGBTQIA+ rights, visibility and community connection
- Pride Month Berlin, held in June, expands the celebration with a range of events and programs
Beyond major festivals, Berlin maintains a strong year-round commitment to diversity and inclusion:
- Haus der Kulturen der Welt offers exibitions, performances and residencies centering on migrant and post-migrant narratives
- Berlin strengthens anti-discrimination protections through a dedicated legal framework and support services:
- The Berlin State Office for Equal Treatment and Against Discimination (LADS) offers legal guidance for individuals facing discrimination and structural initiatives such as diversity trainings and independent ombudspersons for public institutions
- The city participates annually in the International Weeks Against Racism (each March), featuring:
- Workshops, film screenings, public rallies and local campaigns
- Programming designed to combat discrimination and build solidarity across communities