Berlin, November 7th, 2026 (The Berlin Spectator) – Having two huge New Year’s Eve parties is better than one. The city state of Berlin is organizing one of two big celebrations. But, 55 days ahead of New Year’s Eve, no details have been announced.
Things are different with regard to the second big party, organized by an initiative called “We Are Berlin”. “Berlin drives out fear”, the NGO stated. “Crises, wars, polarization. We have grown used to telling the story of the future mainly as a problem. On December 31st, 2026, Berlin wants to turn that story around for one night.”
“Confidence instead of fear. Solidarity instead of withdrawal.” This is the big party’s motto. “We Are Berlin” says they are planning a huge 360-degree stage around the Victory Column. “Berlin wants to show what this city can do when art, culture and the public are not thought of separately.” It does? Good. Twenty-four additional stages will be set up too. As many as 100,000 are expected to join this big party.
Techno and Schlager
“The aim is to turn one New Year’s Eve into a moment whose images reach far beyond Berlin”, the organization behind the party says. The big stage is supposed to contain a “ring of music, light and people”. What about the live music? It will include Techno, Hip-Hop and Schlager. The latter genre is the worst kind of German Pop music.
“Generations, genres and scenes will not simply be sent onto the stage one after another, but brought together for specially developed medleys and collaborations”, the organizers say. They are basically reinventing the concert. Also, they announced what they call Europe’s longest dance floor. Apart from the music, food will be offered.
Last year, “We Are Berlin” had wanted to organize a party at Brandenburg Gate, but the city did not let them because of its own party event, which took place at the location. Until two years ago, the television broadcaster ZDF had organized televised parties at the Gate.
