The run-up to Christmas has Berlin firmly in its grip: Festive illuminations,Christmas markets and special events turn Advent into an experience. This weekend, you can enjoy great opera, go on an unusual journey or get into the Christmas spirit with dancing. There's something for everyone: whether it's a funny sheep story or a Christmas reading, there's something for everyone. Wrap up warm and experience a Berlin Advent full of variety!
And don't forget: Sunday is Sunday shopping. This means that for all those who would like to use the Sunday for Christmas shopping or strolling around, Berlin's shops will be open from 1pm to 8pm.
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Tip 1: Be inspired at the opera
A great opera awaits you with Richard Wagner's "Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg". The charming story about art, love and rivalry is one of the most beautiful works of classical music. In magnificent costumes and an impressive stage backdrop, you can experience the rousing voices and orchestra of the German Opera. An evening full of drama and musical perfection!
When: Sunday 4pm
Where: Deutsche Oper Berlin, Bismarckstraße 35, Charlottenburg
Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg
Tip 2: Embark on a fascinating journey
The open-air exhibition "China ist nicht fern!" by the Axel Springer Freedom Foundation presents impressive photographs and documents that shed light on the parallels between these two important events. Learn more about recent history and discover the connections between the peaceful revolution in the GDR and the democracy protests on Tiananmen Square in Beijing. Get to know the courageous people who stood up for freedom and democracy and reflect on the significance of these movements for our society today. An inspiring excursion for anyone interested in contemporary history and human rights.
When: 15 November to 12 December 2024
Where: Axel-Springer-Verlag, Verlagshaus Berlin, Axel-Springer-Straße 65, 10888 Berlin
Tip 3: Enjoy a Christmas lights tour
Berlin in the glow of the Christmas season - what could be better? On the Christmas lights tour by bus, you'll be immersed in a fairytale world full of twinkling lights, festively decorated facades and a Christmassy atmosphere. The cosy round trip takes you past the capital's most famous sights, which are bathed in festive light. With an experienced guide, you will learn exciting anecdotes about Berlin's Christmas tradition and the city's gorgeous decorations. Perfect for families, couples or anyone who wants to experience Berlin in a special glamour.
When: Various dates in December
Where: Starting point after booking (see website)
Relax to live music at Konzerthaus for 13+
Would you like to listen to South African songs, minimal music and film music in a relaxed atmosphere in the music club while getting to know music-loving peers? Come to our "Schwerelos" youth concert with live music on December 7!
Tip 4: Celebrate 30 years of the Anne Frank Museum
Go on an impressive journey through time and experience the anniversary celebrations to mark the 30th anniversary of the Anne Frank Centre. Right next to Hackesche Höfe, the centre invites you to discover Anne Frank's story even more intensively through a variety of programme items. Special guided tours and workshops allow you to experience the moving story at first hand. One highlight is the new exhibition "Anne Frank. Tomorrow more...", which sheds light on her life story from a modern perspective. Be inspired by multimedia installations and personal stories and join in the discussion on topics such as democracy, respect and tolerance.
When: The whole weekend at different times
Where: Anne Frank Zentrum, Rosenthaler Straße 39, Mitte
More information about the Anne Frank Zentrum
Tip 5: Conquer Charlottenburg Palace
Go on a royal journey of discovery with the Charlottenburg Combo Ticket and immerse yourself in the splendid world of the Prussian court. Visit the splendidly furnished rooms of Charlottenburg Palace, including the magnificent Porcelain Cabinet and the spacious New Wing. With the combined ticket, you can not only visit the interiors, but also enjoy the beautiful gardens - perfect for a relaxing stroll in the fresh air. The exhibition in the palace provides insights into the baroque and early classicist architecture and introduces you to the exciting history of the Hohenzollern House.
When: Open daily (details of times can be found on the website)
Where: Charlottenburg Palace, Spandauer Damm 10-22, 14059 Berlin
Tickets for Charlottenburg Palace
Tip 6: Be enchanted by the Lankwitzer Weihnachtscircus
Dive into the magical world of the 7. Lankwitz Christmas Circus and be enchanted by breathtaking artistry, humorous clowns and impressive animal performances. From 7 December 2024 to 5 January 2025, the Weihnachtscircus Rogall will be making a guest appearance in its home city of Berlin and presenting a varied programme for the whole family. A special highlight is the appearance of the Transformer car Bumblebee, which will amaze the audience live in the circus ring. Enjoy the festive atmosphere in the heated Grand Chapiteau and experience unforgettable moments full of joy and excitement.
When: 7 December 2024 to 5 January 2025
Where: Circus Rogall, Birkbuschstraße 54, 12167 Berlin
Tip 7: Dive into the magical Christmas bakery
Look forward to a musical highlight of the Advent season: The Christmas Bakery is coming to the stage at the Stage Theatre des Westens and will whisk you away into the world of Christmas anticipation with its popular songs and a magical story. The play is based on the well-known songs by Rolf Zuckowski and delights the whole family with lively characters, humorous scenes and a festive atmosphere. There's no baking here, just laughter, singing and excitement - a perfect event to immerse yourself in the Advent spirit.
When: since 24 November in Berlin
Where: Stage Theater des Westens
Tip 8: Fairytale winter worlds and Advent in nature
Immerse yourself in a fairytale winter wonderland at the Oberschönen Weihnachtsmarkt in Oberschöneweide! The historic setting of the Rathenau-Kunsthof is transformed into a sea of lights with poinsettias and festive decorations. Artisans present their lovingly crafted unique pieces, while the scent of mulled wine and roasted almonds fills the air. The handmade gifts, from ceramics and jewellery to textiles, make the market a fund treasure trove for unusual gifts.
Christmas atmosphere in the middle of nature? That's exactly what awaits you at Advent im Natur-Park Südgelände in Schöneberg. Between old railway tracks and wintry trees, you can be enchanted by the contemplative flair. In addition to regional organic products and handmade Christmas decorations, you can also find environmentally conscious gift ideas here. For families, workshops offer creative opportunities to do handicrafts together or learn more about the environment. Here, sustainability becomes Christmas magic.
When: 7 and 8 December . December
Where: Rathenau-Kunsthof, Wilhelminenhofstraße 83-85, Treptow-Köpenick and Natur-Park Schöneberger Südgelände, Prellerweg 47-49, Tempelhof-Schöneberg
Tip 9: Secret things in the Christmas season
Let yourself be whisked away into the magical world of Christmas literature! At the atmospheric reading "So much secrecy at Christmas time..." you can look forward to a varied programme of Christmas stories and poems. Whether humorous, contemplative or surprising - the carefully selected texts will put you in the Christmas spirit. There is also a touch of nostalgia when well-known Christmas carols fill the room and make your eyes light up. Perfect for literature fans and anyone who wants to experience the magic of Christmas in words.
When: 7 December 2024
Where: Bibliothek am Wasserturm, Prenzlauer Allee 227-228, Prenzlauer Berg
So many secrets at Christmas time
Tip 10: Experience a very special Christmas story
A Christmas story, as you've never experienced it before: "The Last Sheep" tells Christmas Eve from the perspective of a small flock of sheep - with humour, heart and a whole new perspective on the Christmas story. This humorous reading for the whole family at the Theater an der Parkaue will make young and old alike laugh and be amazed. Be enchanted by charming characters and their adventure as they make their way to the nativity scene. Perfect for families who want to experience an original and entertaining Christmas story together.
When: 6 December
Where: Theater an der Parkaue, Parkaue 29, Lichtenberg
Christmas story the last sheep
Tip 11: Tap into the festive season with Irish Christmas
Get swept away by Irish Christmas magic!"Irish Christmas" combines the vibrant art of tap dancing with traditional Celtic sounds and creates a unique experience that brings you closer to the festive season in a very special way. The tap dance group "Tap Connection Berlin" presents a captivating show at the ufaFabrik that is fuelled by the irrepressible energy of Irish traditions. Accompanied by live music and soulful singing, the stage is transformed into an Irish pub full of stories, emotions and rhythms. Perfect for dance and music lovers looking for a Christmassy alternative.
When: 8 December
Where: ufaFabrik, Viktoriastraße 10-18, Tempelhof
