Zurich hosts one of the oldest, still existing gay bars in Europe opening as early as 1957. Legislation on gays and lesbians was much more liberal in Switzerland, especially during the 2nd World War and even before, that the country became a host for many gays and lesbians. First organisied activities of gays are recorded back in the end of the 19th century with an association called "Der Kreis", publishing texts about the topic. These activities were documented and presented to the public by Switzerland's National Museum in Zurich in a much acclaimed exhibition just two years ago.

No wonder the Christopher Street Day - being the largest one in Switzerland - is organised since 1994 on a yearly basis in Zurich by our association. By offical name “Verein Gay Pride – Christo­pher Street Day Zürich“ or short “CSD Zürich”, it is open to all persons and all LGBT associations wishing to help planning and organising the Christopher Street Day in Zurich.

The association is legally registered as an non-profit organisation. All members of the board and the organisation commitee are voluntary workers and are not payed.

The turnover of the 2006 event was approximately 110,000 US$ and proceeds of 3,000 US$. The financial situation of the association is sound and ensured.

Almost 200 members and organisations team pursuing the goal of bringing LGBT issues to the forefront. The association is integrated into the LGBT community in Zurich and Switzerland and has good connections to the governments of the city and the state of Zurich. Due to the tolerant and open minded spirit of the citizens of Zurich, the Christopher Street Day has experienced a constant growth over the years and welcomed up to 14?000 people this year.

In 2009 CSD Zürich will organise and host Europe’s largest LGBT event, the EuroPride 09.

Verein Gay Pride – Christopher Street Day Zürich
P.O. Box 1259, CH-8021 Zürich / Switzerland

Members of the board:        
Eva Gaensli, Co-chair        
Patrick Hadi Huber, Co-chair        
Mark Frederik Chapman, Marketing 
Rolando Fusco, Event Management
Maria del Carmen Maget, Administration & Services
Andres C. Nitsch, Communications and Media Relations
Peter Roth, Finance