23rd Union Christmas Singing: 28,500 Fans Warm Up - 23rd Union Christmas Singing: 28,500 Fans Warm Up
Union Berlin’s annual Christmas sing-along filled the Alte Försterei stadium with 28,500 fans on Sunday evening. The event, now in its 23rd year, has grown from a small gathering of 89 people in 2003 into one of German football’s most beloved traditions. This year’s celebration came as both the men’s and women’s teams sit comfortably mid-table in their respective leagues.
The evening kicked off 15 minutes behind schedule, with the stadium lights dimming at 7:15 p.m. Nina Hagen opened the festivities by performing the club anthem, setting the tone for a night of music. Fans sang a mix of Union fight songs and traditional Christmas carols, continuing a tradition that began on 23 December 2003.
What started as a modest gathering with around 90 attendees has since spread across Germany, inspiring similar events at other clubs. The sing-along now draws tens of thousands each year, always held the day before Christmas Eve. On the pitch, Union Berlin’s men’s team entered the winter break in eighth place in the Bundesliga, holding 21 points. The women’s team, meanwhile, climbed to ninth in their league with 15 points. Both sides remain nine and eight points clear of the relegation zone, respectively.
The sold-out event reinforced the club’s strong connection with its supporters. With both teams secure in their league positions, Union Berlin heads into the holiday season on a high note. The tradition, now a mass phenomenon, shows no signs of slowing down.
