Germany commemorates 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall with a series of festivities themed ‘Preserve Freedom!’ amidst rising concerns over democracy, fueled by contemporary geopolitical tensions. Chancellor Olaf Scholz highlighted this significance, emphasizing that the ideals of 1989 are not guaranteed. The celebrations include a memorial event at the Berlin Wall, a ‘freedom party’ at the Brandenburg Gate, and performances by global pro-democracy activists, reflecting on both historical achievements and current political divisions. The anniversary coincides with troubling events, including rising populism and the legacy of the Nazi-era pogrom, underscoring the complexity of Germany’s unity.