Germany is observing the Day of German Unity (Tag der Deutschen Einheit) on Saturday, October 3, 2026, marking the 36th anniversary of the country’s reunification. The national public holiday commemorates the formal accession of the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) to the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) on October 3, 1990, ending more than four decades of division.
The process began after the peaceful fall of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989. Although November 9 was considered as a possible national holiday, it was set aside due to its association with the 1938 Kristallnacht pogrom. Instead, October 3 — the date the Unification Treaty took full effect and the five new eastern states (Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia) joined the Federal Republic — was chosen as the official national day.
This year the official central celebrations are hosted by the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen, which currently holds the presidency of the Bundesrat (Federal Council). From October 2 to 4, Bremen’s city centre, the Schlachte riverside promenade, and the Osterdeich embankment transform into a large public festival under the motto “Many Strengths, One Country” (“Viele Stärken – ein Land”). Organisers expect more than 400,000 visitors. The programme includes stages with live music (notably a concert by Die Fantastischen Vier on October 3), exhibitions showcasing the 16 federal states, regional food, cultural displays, and presentations by federal institutions.
An official ceremony featuring Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and other constitutional representatives takes place in Bremen’s concert hall “Die Glocke.” Parallel events occur nationwide, especially in Berlin. Highlights there include free admission to the German Historical Museum, the traditional opening of the Ministergärten (state representation gardens), Open Mosque Day organised by Islamic communities, historical tours, and family-friendly events such as the Medieval Juggler Festival at Spandau Citadel.
Even 36 years after reunification, discussions continue about economic and social differences between eastern and western Germany, with ongoing investment in the eastern states highlighted as a priority. The day remains a moment of reflection on democratic achievement, national cohesion, and the peaceful end of the Cold War division of Europe.
As Germany’s only federal public holiday established by national law, October 3 sees schools, most shops, and government offices closed across all 16 states.