The Queer History of Berlin Tour

Queer history was written in German — namely, right here in Berlin! Despite severe setbacks, the community here has never given up fighting for their rights. The most important spot for the queer movement is Nollendorfkiez, which has been at its heart for more than 120 years.

Join Leni and Avi, two of Queer Eye Germany's Fab Five, as well as local insider Holger on the trail of Berlin's LGBTQIA+ past. On this tour, you'll learn more about their favorite spots and what makes the queer community in Berlin stand out for them.

Tickets are free for this small group tour and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. The tour will be held in German.

About Avi

Avi Jakobs, hair and makeup artist and protagonist of the hit series Queer Eye Germany, is passionate about education and inclusion. She uses her reach on social media to help members of the LGBTQIA+ community feel more self-love and self-confidence, as well as to give queer issues visibility and relevance.

What was your first encounter with queer Berlin like?
My first encounter was actually Christopher Street Day (CSD), back then with my lesbian crew, my girls. That was super intense, I had never been to the Berlin CSD before. I put on my mom's underwear and went there like that: It was just a way for me to be me, and it was a big party. Because this day is such a highlight, people come from everywhere and the vibe there is very special.

Has the meaning of CSD changed for you over the years?
The meaning of CSD has changed completely for me. By now, I really see the day as a protest and a fight for rights. I think it would be good if more people started to see it not only as a big party, because there is still so much to do. Making a poster and holding it up while celebrating is really not too much to ask.

What do you think needs to be done to make Berlin even more inclusive?
I think more education is needed because even within the community sometimes things aren't that inclusive. There are groups everywhere who judge others because they don't understand them. I always encourage people to learn more about other identities and other realities as well  —  and not to condemn anything or anyone just because you don't think the same way yourself. Just because it's better now doesn't mean you should just enjoy it — the fight should always continue. And all the people who are not affected themselves, we need them to stand up for us as well.

What is your top tip for experiencing queer culture in Berlin? Do you have a favorite place?
Going out to party. I don't think there are many cities where you can party like you can in Berlin, where you're so free. I like to think back to the first times when I really went wild with my looks. The Berlin clubs were my safe spaces. You're allowed to be anything you want there, and that's beautiful. I feel very comfortable in Mitte. I like the many cafés and generally everything is very open there. I can wear anything I want there and feel safe.

About Leni

As a life coach, Leni Bolt supports her clients in finding a proper work-life balance and coping with inner conflicts. Sometimes that means using unconventional methods, like skateboarding or hiking with alpacas. In Queer Eye Germany, Leni’s kind and open-minded demeanor always manages to encourage others.

You grew up in a rather conservative German city. How did you end up in Berlin?
I already knew in my teenage years that I wanted to live in Berlin some day. I’ve never really felt accepted and comfortable in my hometown. I still remember my first encounter with queer Berlin: a friend invited me to a party where I saw drag queens for the first time. They fascinated and enchanted me right away. 

What is something that still surprises people?
I feel a lot of people are quite lost when they hear the term “non-binary”. But that’s exactly why we want to educate people, and demonstrate that not everyone fits into the male or female categories, and that’s fine. In another 120 years, we will hopefully be able to read more about us non-binary people in history. 

What is your number one tip to properly experience the culture in Berlin?
Be open-minded! Discover the area around Nollendorfplatz, roam the streets with a big smile on your face, and explore the neighborhood for yourself. I also enjoy voguing balls: the atmosphere is so full of energy, love, and community. Try to go to one if you hear about it. For clubbing, I really like Schwuz, it’s very inclusive.

What is something the older members of the community can teach young queer people?
Young people have to remember the past. I think it’s great that the next generation is growing up way more open-minded than we did. A lot of young people are familiar with the terms “transgender” and “non-binary”. Of course social media plays a big part in that. I just hope these young people realize that it hasn’t always been this way. And that they have the power to ensure that we don’t lose this freedom again.

Are you optimistic about the future for the LGBTQIA+ community?
If only I was able to answer that… I definitely have an optimistic mindset when it comes to the future. On one side, I see hoards of people against us. I just can’t understand that, we don’t take away anything from them. However, I also see so much support from allies, who always have our back. That’s why I have hope for the future.