All around the world party animals everywhere go absolutely mental for New Years Eve and of course Berlin is no exception! Whether it is the buzzing hotspots of Berghain and Renate or somewhere which is usually known for being a little quieter, everywhere in Berlin celebrates mankind entering a new year.
Of course Brandenburg Gate sees most of the action at New Years Eve as it hosts the biggest open air party around. You can imagine the lively atmosphere as over a million people attend this great event, making London and New York look a little inferior in comparison!
So what’s to be expected at Brandenburg Gate? Well, the lead up to midnight includes a 1.2 mile long party with live performances taken place on several stages, laser shows, food and bar stands and of course DJ’s and dance floors for you to get your groove on! Don’t worry about having so much fun that you lose track of midnight as there is a gigantic clock and an official countdown which takes place upon on those last few seconds of the year.
Of course it is a good idea to get to the Brandenburg Gate at a reasonable time due to the night kicking off early and the multitudes of people which inevitably gather. I suggest getting there for around 5pm as the actual event starts at 6.30pm but you will want to make sure you get a nice spot near the main stage. Much like any club, bags are checked upon arrival so it is a good idea to leave dodgy sharp objects and alcohol at home. As pretty as those high heels might look, it is probably a good idea to wear shoes a little more comfortable as the event lasts right up until early hours of the morning.
If firework, live music and dancing with 1 million fun loving party-goers isn’t your thing, then there are many other fun activities to celebrate the coming of the New Year. For example why not dine in some Berlins most famous restaurants such as Margaux or Prater? If on the other hand you still want to get on your dancing shoes and dance the night away, but in a nice warm club instead of the outdoors, then Berlin has some worthy venues for you to do just that! Cheap drinks and awesome techno music can be found at Ritter Butzke, whereas themed nights, live ska music and ping pong tables can be found at Salon- zur wilden Renate!
Once New Years day has finally arrived, I challenge you to do the New Years Run which is 2.5 miles in distance and starts at the Brandenburg Gate. It might sound easy but after all that hard partying it is truly one hell of a challenge! All benefits raised will go to Unicef, so it definitely worth giving it a shot.
So have yourself a very Happy New Year no matter what you decide to do this New Years Eve and make sure you wish your fellow German party-goers a Happy New Year too – “Guten Rutsch” is German for Happy New Year!
