On May 1, 2025, Berlin witnessed a significant deployment of police as the city prepared for numerous demonstrations and events celebrating International Workers' Day. Approximately 5,700 police officers were mobilized across the capital to ensure safety during the various gatherings, a number consistent with previous years. Police President Barbara Slowik Meisel expressed confidence, stating, "We have managed the May 1st events well in the past, and I think that applies to this year as well," according to RBB Inforadio.
The day began peacefully, with the Walpurgis Night concluding without any incidents. By noon, over 30 demonstrations had been registered, with around 15,000 participants expected for the left-wing demonstrations heading towards Grunewald. The highlight of the day was the 'Revolutionary May 1st demonstration,' scheduled to start at 6 PM in Kreuzberg, which traditionally draws thousands from the left and left-extremist scenes.
As the day unfolded, various events took place across the city. At Görlitzer Park, around 500 participants gathered for a rave under the motto "Free Görli – Rave against the Zaun". Michelle, 25, and Eva, 27, were selling water ice to attendees, with Michelle noting, "With the weather, it's perfect! People love it. It's a good women's business." The rave was set to continue until 10 PM, drawing a crowd of approximately 7,000 visitors.
Meanwhile, Mauerpark was bustling with activity, hosting about 9,000 people enjoying the festive atmosphere. According to police reports, by midday, around 15,000 revelers had been counted in Berlin's green spaces. The fire department was also on high alert, deploying around 1,300 emergency personnel, along with additional ambulances and specialized units.
In Grunewald, the police reported 1,700 participants in a demonstration, while organizers claimed several thousand were present. Both sides described the event as colorful and peaceful. At Mariannenplatz in Kreuzberg, a festive atmosphere prevailed with speeches and live music taking place on stage since 11 AM. Tally A., 42, stated, "It's wonderful. We come every year. The weather is great, and people are in a good mood. We are excited. It's a shame there's no May Festival this year."
As the afternoon progressed, the police utilized helicopters to monitor the crowds from above, ensuring safety as they observed the celebratory gatherings. Traffic congestion was reported on the way to Treptower Park, where many open-air clubs and sunbathing areas attracted large crowds.
At the Grunewald demonstration, a protest rocket with the inscription "My Ass" was launched, referencing Tesla's CEO Elon Musk. This satirical act drew attention to the ongoing debates surrounding wealth inequality and environmental issues.
At the DGB rally at the Rotes Rathaus, police estimated 6,500 participants, while the organizers anticipated about 10,000. The atmosphere was peaceful, with banners demanding a minimum wage increase to €15 and an end to wage dumping. Franziska Giffey, the Economic Senator from the SPD, participated, stating, "For me, the demonstration is part of May 1st. It is the day of struggle for good work and fair wages – the core of social democracy."
As the day continued, the DGB demonstration march began at Karl-Marx-Allee, heading towards the Rotes Rathaus. Katja Karger, Chairwoman of the DGB Berlin-Brandenburg, declared 2025 a year of "directional decisions," emphasizing the need for higher wages and better working conditions. She stated, "It’s not just about higher wages and better working conditions, but also about good frameworks that politics creates for employees."
In the lead-up to the evening's events, the police were on high alert, prepared for potential escalations. Rainer Wendt, head of the German Police Union, warned of the potential for violence, particularly from left-wing extremists. He noted that the 1st of May has historically been exploited as a day of struggle against democratic institutions, and this year, they were prepared with modern equipment, including water cannons.
In addition to the left-wing demonstrations, far-right groups were also planning events. In Gera, Thuringia, a major right-wing rally was scheduled, with mobilization from various extremist factions, including the AfD. The AfD planned protests in several cities, including Cottbus and Dresden, further complicating the atmosphere on May Day.
As the sun began to set, the atmosphere in Berlin remained vibrant yet tense, with the 'Revolutionary May 1st Demo' set to commence in Kreuzberg and Neukölln. The route, which passed through areas known for their pro-Palestinian activism, was a focal point for many demonstrators. In previous years, this route had raised security concerns, leading to alterations in the planned path.
Despite the potential for conflict, the police maintained a hopeful outlook, emphasizing their strategy of de-escalation through strength and preparedness. Wendt expressed confidence in the police's ability to manage the situation effectively, stating, "De-escalation through strength and determination is the recipe for success against violent demonstrators."
Overall, May 1st in Berlin showcased a blend of celebration and protest, with trade unions advocating for workers' rights, left-wing activists rallying for social justice, and the police standing ready to ensure safety amidst the diverse demonstrations. As the day concluded, Berlin's streets echoed with the voices of those demanding change, reflecting the ongoing struggle for workers' rights and social equity.
