German Unity Day

German Unity Day History

German Unity Day commemorates the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990, which marked the end of a divided nation and the Cold War era. This occasion not only signifies a restored unity within the country but also highlights the democratic values, peace, and cooperation shared among European Union member states.

The origins of German Unity Day can be traced back to the fall of the Berlin Wall, a significant event in world history that took place on November 9, 1989. This led to the unification process, officially formalized in the Unification Treaty signed on August 31, 1990, and the entry into force of the accession of the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) to the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) on October 3, 1990. For other EU nations, German reunification marked a critical step in fostering a unified and stable Europe. Since then, Germany has played a vital role in European integration and has been a strong advocate for a united and collaborative approach among EU member states.

In the European Union, German Unity Day serves as a reminder of the significance of joint efforts, openness, and cooperation among all member states. The day is observed through cultural events and gatherings, which often provide an opportunity for people of different nationalities to learn about German customs, history, and the spirit of unity. German Unity Day is observed annually on October 3rd.

Top facts about German Unity Day

• The demolition of the Berlin Wall began on 9 November 1989. 339 days later, the nations would be reunified and East Germany and West Germany would once again be one.
• On 23 June 1948, the Western nations introduced a new form of currency in Western Germany. This new currency caused the Soviet Union to issue the Berlin Blockade the following day.
• The Berlin Wall was built on the night of 12 August 1948 with barbed wire. Originally, it only stretched through some 50km through Berlin.
• The fall of the Berlin Wall did more for the progress of freedom than all of the books written by myself or Friedrich Hayek or others. - Milton Friedman, Nobel Prize winning economist

In the News and Trending in the EU for German Unity Day

German Unity Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Generate awareness for the day on social media by posting pictures of you and your friends or family and the hashtags #GermanUnityDay, #ReunitedGermany #FallofWall.
• Celebrate the day in Romerberg and Paulsplatz in Frankfurt. Enjoy speeches from the President, concerts from German stars and stories from those who lived through the era of the Berlin Wall.
• Watch a documentary about the Reunification of Germany and the Fall of the Berlin Wall. Some of our suggestions include: The Reunification of Germany, German Reunification, The Fall of the Berlin Wall and The Wall.
• Indulge in some traditional German foods to celebrate the National Day. Enjoy Apfelstrudel, Eintopf, Kaesespaetzle, Schnitzel and Wurst.
• Attend the Unity Street Fest in Berlin near the Brandenburg Gate. The Fest includes a parade, beer gardens and of course a German concert.