Cologne Pride © Zik/Express

Hundreds of thousands of revellers pack the city streets for the annual Cologne Pride/Christopher Street Day parade. One of the largest gay and lesbian events in Germany, the celebration aims to raise awareness and social acceptance of lesbians, gays, bi- and transsexuals. The main event is the huge parade consisting of dancers, floats and sounds systems that makes its way through the city's streets. Other events take place throughout the city during the weekend. The event now attracts about a million visitors each year.

Times
The festival village is open 1200-2200 daily; the parade takes place on the Sun and begins at 1200.