48 Stunden Neukölln

48 Stunden Neukölln at a glance

Every year, the streets of Neukölln come alive with the works of both established and emerging artists. With art being showcased in over 300 venues, including bars, parks, shops and even people's homes, it's easy to see how the district itself becomes a canvas for artistic exploration. Rather than being confined to traditional galleries, the artists use every nook and cranny of the urban landscape to present their creations, from thought-provoking sculptures to spontaneous performances.

Visitors to the festival are encouraged to engage with art. Many works invite you to participate, whether by adding your own creative touch or starting a conversation about the societal issues being addressed. The festival's penchant for mixing professional artists with newcomers and combining curated pieces with uncurated expressions has made it a leading example of democratised art in Berlin and beyond.

WTF (What the Fact)? – Truth and Perception

This year's motto is dedicated to the topic of truth. In a world full of digital stimuli, the boundaries between reality and perception are becoming blurred. What we perceive as ‘true’ is often only one facet of a multi-layered reality, shaped by personal experiences and media consumption. Artists have the opportunity to play with these perspectives, reveal illusions and create new meanings. Especially in times of fake news and digital manipulation, art becomes a tool for questioning the complexity of truth.

48 Stunden Neukölln highlights

• Diverse art forms: From visual art and performances to sound installations, this festival covers all artistic expressions.
  

• Unique locations: Art can be found in every possible space – from parks to bars and even in local Spätis (corner shops). 
  

• Free entry: Enjoy all that the festival has to offer at no cost.
  

• International artists: The event features both Berlin-based creators and artists from around the globe, giving the festival an international flair.
  

• Personal interaction: Many artists are on-site to discuss their work, creating a dialogue between art and audience.
  

Discover 48 Stunden Neukölln

48 Stunden Neukölln has played a vital role in Berlin's cultural landscape for many years. What started in 1999 as a grassroots initiative to improve Neukölln's reputation has since evolved into the city's largest free art festival, attracting around 100,000 visitors annually. The festival promotes the idea that art can and should be for everyone – not limited to high-end galleries or prestigious museums, but accessible in the streets, bars and everyday spaces.

Each year, the festival selects a theme based on current social discussions, and artists are invited to respond. The festival's non-hierarchical approach allows anyone with an idea that aligns with the theme to participate, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and innovation.

Top tips for 48 Stunden Neukölln

• The festival runs for a full 48 hours, with indoor venues open until midnight on Friday and Saturday.
  

• Be sure to check out both the curated exhibitions and spontaneous performances scattered throughout the district.
  

• The festival team are on site and can be recognised by their 48 Stunden Neukölln T-shirts. Visitors are encouraged to reach out to them if they need any assistance.
  

• Neukölln is easily accessible via public transport. You can take underground lines U7 and U8 as well as multiple S-Bahn and bus lines.
  

• Many events are wheelchair accessible – check the festival programme and map, which highlight accessible locations.