The importance of International Women's Day
International Women's Day has been around for over a hundred years. It is an important date that aims to recognise the valuable contributions and achievements of women to society, the economy, culture and politics, and to promote gender equality. The United Nations declared this day an international day in 1977, and since then it has been celebrated every year on 8 March with different themes. The theme of International Women's Day 2026 revolves around giving and supporting together, so that all women and girls can move forward stronger, more visible and more powerful. Give To Gain!
The progress and growth of IWD in promoting gender equality between men and women is evident, for example, in the inclusion of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to give women more say. Although Germany plays a leading role in the fight against gender inequality between men and women, there are still many issues that need to be addressed. For example, the gender pay gap that unfortunately still exists in many countries, including Germany. Women in leadership positions are still scarce, which makes it all the more impressive that Germany had a female chancellor for so many years in Angela Merkel, a globally recognised symbol of strong female leadership.
Berlin is the first of Germany's 16 federal states to recognise “Frauentag” as a public holiday since 2019. Increased awareness of the inequality that still exists has helped IWD spread its message, and since this year, another federal state in Germany has also declared 8 March a public holiday.
Clara Zetkin and International Women’s Day in Berlin
8 March is an important date in the history of feminism and equality and has a special significance in Germany. International Women's Day was an initiative of the German activist Clara Zetkin. The German feminist and communist, fought for better wages, shorter working hours and better labour and maternity policies. She also fought for women's fundamental right to vote. In 1910, she attended a meeting in Denmark, where she proposed the concept of a day dedicated to equality and women. The following year, the first International Women's Day was celebrated.
What to do – Celebrate femininity
Around International Women's Day, Berlin organises various events on gender equality, the pay gap and women's rights. Here is an overview of the events:
Final Girls Berlin Film Festival: Feminist, queer and non-binary horror films
- When? Between 4 and 8 March 2026
- Where? City Kino Wedding
The Final Girls Berlin Film Festival celebrates International Women's Day with feminist, queer and non-binary horror films that focus on women and diversity.
Beyond Carnations and Chocolates Festival: Festival with performances by Fraw Blanka, Gani and Huda
- When? On 7 March 2026
- What time? At 20:00
- Where? Gretchen
- Admission: Soli ticket
Various performances to celebrate International Women's Day.
Haus Natur und Umwelt: Relaxed International Women's Day in nature
- When? On 8 March 2026
- What time? Between 10:00 and 16:00
- Where? Haus Natur und Umwelt, FEZ Berlin
- Admission: free
Celebrate International Women's Day at Haus Natur und Umwelt with a relaxing day in nature and free inspiring activities for women.
Frauen*kampftag: demonstration
- When? On 8 March 2026
- What time? At 11:30
- Where? At Oranienplatz, ending at Rotes Rathaus
This new feminist movement sets the tone for the day with a powerful message: a life without fear and oppression for everyone.
Purple Ride: bike demonstration
- When? On 8 March 2026
- What time? At 12:00
- Where? From Mariannenplatz to Leopoldplatz
A colourful and energetic tour for FLINTA* through Berlin, combining fun and protest.
*FLINTA: (women, lesbians, intersex, non-binary, transgender and agender persons)
Choir concert 30 years of Classical Lesbians!: Anniversary concert of the lesbian choir
- When? On 8 March 2026
- What time? At 17:30
- Where? Emmauskirche
- Admission: €15.57
Experience this concert by the choir that has been giving voice to the lesbian community in Berlin for 30 years.
International Women's Day in Berlin mosques
- When? On 8 March 2026
- What time? Breaking the fast at 6:03 p.m.
- Where? At various participating mosques
Mosques are opening their doors especially for women, a special opportunity to experience culture and community and break the fast together in a safe and inclusive atmosphere.
Rosen für Clara: flower laying and speeches by politicians and activists
- When? On 9 March 2026
- What time? At 16:00
- Where? Clara Zetkin monument, Berlin-Marzahn
Pay tribute to Clara Zetkin and the struggle for women's rights.
Celebrate Women in Berlin
Experience Berlin in a special way during these events and be inspired by the stories and achievements of women. It's a unique way to discover the city. From demonstrations and festivals to music, film and cultural activities, there's something for everyone. Celebrate International Women's Day in Berlin and take a moment today to think about the women in your life. Put them in the spotlight, because every woman deserves recognition, appreciation and a moment to shine!
