Freiburg's Martins Gate glows blue for ME/CFS Awareness Day 2026

Freiburg will turn Martins Gate blue on May 12, 2026, to mark ME/CFS Awareness Day. The city joins a global campaign to highlight a condition that affects around 650,000 people in Germany alone. Known as chronic fatigue syndrome, ME/CFS often brings severe daily challenges and social isolation for those living with it. The 'LightUpTheNight4ME' initiative encourages landmarks and institutions worldwide to light up in blue. Freiburg’s participation aims to draw attention to a condition that can develop after infections. Many patients face long-term exhaustion and disability, yet public understanding remains limited.

Ahead of the illumination, a lie-down protest will take place on May 9, 2026, at Augustinerplatz. The event is designed to symbolise the debilitating effects of ME/CFS. Organisers hope it will spark conversations about the need for better support and research. ME/CFS often leaves sufferers unable to work, socialise, or carry out basic tasks. Despite its impact, the condition receives little public recognition. Campaigns like this seek to change that by making the illness more visible.

Martins Gate will glow blue as part of a wider effort to educate the public about ME/CFS. The protest and lighting display follow similar actions in cities across the globe. With around 650,000 Germans affected, advocates stress the importance of greater awareness and medical research.