Anticipation, the most beautiful joy. Joy in Advent. December marks the beginning of the contemplative Advent and Christmas season in the capital. In addition to the festive highlights and Christmas concerts and events, there are countless opportunities in Berlin to find a suitable Christmas present or to warm up at the Christmas market with mulled wine and hot chestnuts. Our tips for December – and of course for New Year’s Eve.
Tip 1: Christmas markets to suit every taste
Have you already found your favourite Christmas market? Admittedly, with around 80 Christmas markets, it’s not that easy. From traditional and nostalgic to English and Scandinavian to urban and ecological – there is a multitude of different markets to discover in Berlin. Creative crafts, design products, confectionery and culinary specialities are on offer. You can go ice skating, take a carriage ride or look down on the city lights from the Ferris wheel. Find out which Christmas market suits you best in our tips for Berlin’s Christmas markets.
When: throughout December
Where: all over the city
Tip 2: New Year’s Eve in Berlin – Celebrate at the Gate
At the turn of the year 2023/2024, there will finally be another big fireworks display at the Brandenburg Gate. In addition, 20 live acts will perform on the large stage, which will be set up directly in front of the Berlin landmark as usual. You can look forward to Till Brönner and Ella Endlich, among others. On the party mile between the Brandenburg Gate and the Victory Column, food trucks will provide you with international specialities. Make sure you get a ticket to take part in the big party.
Of course, there are many other ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Berlin. You can choose between cool parties in Berlin’s clubs, lavish parties and balls and a candlelight dinner in a restaurant. The very active can make it to the Teufelsberg before the big party at the Berlin Pancake Run.
When: 31 December
Where: anywhere in the city
MORE EVENTS FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE IN BERLIN
Tip 3: Petting baby dinosaurs at Jurassic World
The Jurassic World exhibition opens its doors in December. The word exhibition does not do justice to the world of experience that awaits you here. In various themed areas, you can see life-size dinosaurs that move and look absolutely realistic thanks to sophisticated animatronics. The exhibition has already toured various countries and will only be in Berlin for a limited time. Our highlight: you can even interact with baby dinosaurs. Tickets are already available!
When: From 1 December
Where: Expohalle Urban Banks, Rathenau-Hallen, Wilhelminenhofstraße 83-85, Treptow-Köpenick
Tip 4: Getting inspired at the Berlin Travel Festival
The Berlin Travel Festival has great inspiration in store for anyone with wanderlust. The ITB (International Tourism Fair) no longer has public days, but the Travel Festival has taken its place. Interested visitors can find information here on all topics related to travelling. No matter whether you are looking for practical camping accessories, planning your next long-distance trip or want to get to know beautiful destinations within Germany: You’ve come to the right place.
When: 1 to 3 December
Where: Messe Berlin, South Entrance
Tip 5: The perfect Christmas dinner
It’s not just the festive season – throughout December, one family meal and Christmas party follows the next. Whether you want to get together with friends or colleagues for a bit of festive cheer, a Christmas meal is essential. We have put together a list of the best restaurants for Christmas. And if the classic Christmas roast is not for you, take a look at the sustainable restaurants and vegan/vegetarian restaurants.
CHRISTMAS RESTAURANTS IN BERLIN
For more information and the remaining 6 tips, please visit www.visitberlin.de