“Democracy depends on people getting involved.”
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, initiator and patron of Ehrentag
We’re celebrating the anniversary of our Basic Law on 23 May. Our constitution will turn 77 this year. This means 77 years of freedom, peace and democracy – including in a united Germany for the past 36 years.
Democracy depends on people getting involved, taking responsibility and helping to shape our society. This is precisely what Ehrentag is all about. I have launched Ehrentag together with the German Foundation for Civic Engagement and Volunteer Work. “For you. For us. For everyone.” On this day, everyone in our country is called upon to contribute to the common cause. After all, we can make a great difference when we act together. At the same time, this is a day that should be fun and provides us with an opportunity to get to know new people in our neighbourhood. I would like to invite everyone to take part in Ehrentag on 23 May this year. Let’s come together throughout Germany to roll up our sleeves in our local areas and make our country a little bit better.
I am looking forward to Ehrentag. For you, for us, for everyone.
Ehrentag is on 23 May 2026!
On the birthday of our Basic Law, everyone in Germany is invited to celebrate social interaction – with a day for getting involved across Germany. Be there!
At the end of the day, democracy depends on people getting involved. On the birthday of our constitution, everyone is therefore invited to roll up their sleeves to make our country a little bit better. Meeting people and engaging in joint activities are centre-stage – on 23 May and also in the days before and after.
Ehrentag is to be marked with local activities both large and small, organised – on a voluntary basis – by associations, organisations, companies, municipalities and individuals. They can include litter collection campaigns, inclusive football tournaments, street parties, singalongs, games evenings at retirement homes – there are so many more ideas, and the best is yours!
Activities can take place from 16 to 31 May. On this website, you’ll find out everything you need to know about how to support Ehrentag and how to plan your own activity or participate in one.
Ehrentag is what you make of it. For you. For us. For everyone.
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-Eine gemeinsame Initiative des Bundespräsidenten und der Deutschen Stiftung für Engagement und Ehrenamt
-A joint initiative of the Federal President and the German Foundation for Civic Engagement and Volunteer Work