New Year’s Eve in Berlin: What to do and where to go

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Berlin with an epic firework show at landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, or an elegant concert at Charlottenburg Palace. Berlin’s nightlife glows with rooftop parties, but even more so on NYE and during the holiday season. For a more active option, join the Pancake Run in Grunewald, or enjoy a cozy evening indoors to escape the intense street fireworks. For those travelling with children, explore Berlin’s family-friendly activities at Spandau Citadel. With its rich history, diverse cuisine, and festive atmosphere, there’s no shortage of things to do in Berlin on New Year’s Eve, making it a top destination to welcome the new year.

Everything you need to know about New Year’s Eve in Berlin

New Year’s Eve fireworks: The televised party and fireworks at the Brandenburg Gate is the largest celebration in the city.
Average temperatures at New Year’s Eve in Berlin: 34-39 F (1-3 C).
What to avoid on New Year’s Eve: If fireworks or crowds make you uncomfortable, avoid the area around Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM.
Best free New Year’s Eve activity: Enjoy the fireworks from a rooftop bar or join public celebrations around Potsdamer Platz.

1. Party at the Brandenburg Gate

Berlin’s most well-known New Year’s Eve celebrations takes place at the Brandenburg Gate. With an impressive fireworks display synchronized with music set against the historic backdrop of the city’s iconic landmark, this event delivers a stunning show.

Insider tip

To make the most of the Brandenburg Gate celebration, head to the “Fan Mile” (Straße des 17. Juni) earlier in the evening. This stretch of road features smaller stages and activities, giving you the chance to enjoy live acts up close and catch performances by emerging artists before the main event kicks off. Make sure to layer up and dress warm because winter in Berlin is cold.

Address

Brandenburg Gate, Pariser Platz, 10117 Berlin.

2. See a German classic live

If you ask local residents how to spend New Year’s Eve in Berlin, they’re likely to mention Dinner for One. This quirky British comedy sketch from the 1960s has become a beloved tradition, as popular in Germany as Auld Lang Syne is in English-speaking countries. Many gather around their TVs to watch it, but you can take the experience to the next level by seeing it live. Several Berlin theaters host performances every year, though venues and availability vary, so be sure to plan ahead.

Insider tip

After enjoying a live performance of Dinner for One, visit a local bar or café in Neukölln or Prenzlauer Berg to soak up the lively New Year’s Eve atmosphere. These neighborhoods are full of character and provide a perfect post-show stop to unwind and continue the celebration.

3. Keep the kids busy at Spandau Citadel

When looking for a family-friendly way to celebrate New Year’s Eve, head to Spandau. This historic fortress transforms into a magical setting and has plenty of activities to keep kids entertained, like face painting, a live concert, a lucky wheel, and delicious treats. The highlight? A spectacular fireworks display set against the illuminated citadel, perfect for little ones to enjoy before bedtime.

Insider tip

The event wraps up before the main evening festivities kick off across the city, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a family celebration before diving into something more adult-oriented.

Address

Spandau Citadel, Am Juliusturm 64, 13599 Berlin.

4. Attend a concert at Charlottenburg Palace

For an elegant New Year’s Eve in Berlin, trade fireworks for orchestras and casual wear for period costumes at Charlottenburg Palace. This stunning baroque residence, once the summer retreat of Prussian royalty, hosts an annual gala concert by the Berlin Residence Orchestra. The program features classical masterpieces, often including Mozart and other renowned composers. The candlelit ambiance and performers dressed in historical attire create a truly magical evening.

Insider tip

Tickets for this event are in high demand, so book well in advance. To elevate your experience, consider pairing the concert with a pre-show dinner in the palace’s historic Orangery.

Address

Charlottenburg Palace, Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 Berlin.

5. Bid farewell to the year with the Berlin Philharmonic

Every year, the Berlin Philharmonic stages a spectacular New Year’s Eve concert, providing a refined way to say goodbye to the year. Held in the renowned Berliner Philharmonie, this concert is one of the season’s highlights. Known for its exceptional acoustics and world-class performances, the venue itself is a masterpiece of modern architecture. The program typically includes a mix of classical masterpieces and lively compositions to usher in the new year with sophistication and style.

Insider tip

If you can’t attend the concert in person, the Berlin Philharmonic’s Digital Concert Hall allows you to stream it directly to your TV or device. You can enjoy the performance from the comfort of your home, whether relaxing with friends or taking in the fireworks outside.

Address

Berliner Philharmonie, Herbert-von-Karajan-Straße 1, 10785 Berlin.

6. Join the Berliner Silvesterlauf (New Year’s Eve Run)

Kick off your New Year’s Eve in Berlin with a healthy and fun tradition: the Berliner Silvesterlauf, also known as the “Pancake Run.” Held annually at the Teufelsberg, this lighthearted event welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels to run or walk along scenic routes in the Grunewald forest. Participants are rewarded with Berliner Pfannkuchen, a type of jelly-filled donut commonly referred to as “pancakes” in Berlin, adding a sweet and satisfying end to the experience.

Insider tip

Dress warmly and bring your festive spirit — some participants even run in costumes. It’s a great way to stay active while enjoying the lively atmosphere of Berlin’s running community.

Address

Grunewald, Berlin.

Opening hours

Start times vary by race category, typically between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM.

7. Watch the fireworks from a rooftop bar

For a stylish and unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration, head to one of Berlin’s bars, preferably one with a roofbar. With panoramic views of Berlin’s skyline, these elevated spots are perfect for watching the midnight fireworks light up the city. Many rooftop venues, such as Klunkerkranich in Neukölln or House of Weekend near Alexanderplatz, host special NYE parties with live DJs, food, and drinks, creating a festive atmosphere to welcome the new year.

Insider tip

Fireworks in Berlin can get intense, with locals setting them off in the streets. Watching the display from a rooftop bar allows you to enjoy the spectacle in a safer, more relaxed environment.

Address

Klunkerkranich, Karl-Marx-Straße 66, 12043 Berlin

House of weekend, Alexanderstraße 7, 10178 Berlin

FAQs

How can you spend New Year’s Eve in Berlin?

The Brandenburg Gate is one of the most popular celebrations, but there are many things to do on New Year’s Eve in Berlin, including concerts, theater shows, dinners, and rooftop parties.

How can I get around Berlin on New Year’s Eve?

Public transport runs all night on New Year’s Eve, making it a convenient option to get around Berlin easily. However, expect crowds as most people use the subway (U-Bahn), and there is limited availability for taxis or ride-sharing services.

What is a traditional New Year’s Eve dinner in Berlin?

Potato salad, sausages, and sauerkraut (fermented raw cabbage) are traditional dishes commonly served in Berlin and across Germany on New Year’s Eve.

Is Berlin good to visit in December?

With seasonal decorations, festive markets set up for Christmas in Berlin, and events that aren’t limited to just New Year’s Eve celebrations, December is a fantastic time to visit the city.

Is Berlin safe on New Year’s Eve?

Berlin is generally safe, but New Year’s Eve can get rowdy in some neighborhoods due to the heavy use of fireworks in the streets. To avoid the chaos, it’s best to stay in well-lit, populated areas or opt for organized events.

[HEADER IMAGE CREDIT] Flickr; bilderkombinat berlin. Some rights reserved