In this article, you will learn about the best events in Berlin in December 2023. Mark specific dates in your calendar to ensure you don't miss out.
Related topic: What will change in Germany in December 2023
Best events in Berlin in December 2023: Christmas markets
We cannot discuss events in Berlin without mentioning the incredible variety of Christmas markets.
Among the most renowned Christmas markets in Berlin are the markets at Rotes Rathaus, Charlottenburg Palace, Bebelplatz (usually held at Gendarmenmarkt, but undergoing construction this year), and the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church.
However, you should also explore smaller local markets.
For instance, the regular arts and crafts market at Leopoldplatz in Wedding transforms into a Christmas market every Sunday before Christmas (December 3, 10, and 17).
Christmas bazaars are also held in Berlin-Zehlendorf at the Mexikoplatz railway station on the specified dates.
The Alt-Rixdorf Christmas Market 2023 will take place from December 8 to 10, offering a variety of handmade crafts, gifts, food, and drinks.
The African Winter Market is another excellent choice for those seeking unique gifts.
Held in the four floors of Berlin's Kühlhaus, visitors can explore decorative art and fashion items from emerging artists, accompanied by DJs and food.
It takes place on December 2-3, and the entry fee is 5 euros for adults, while children enter for free.
Chandelier Sessions with David Hedderman
December 2
If you want to attend a free local music event, check out the upcoming Chandelier Sessions featuring Dublin-born and Berlin-based artist and musician David Hedderman.
The event takes place at Tuesday Coworking, Bundesallee 187, 10717 Berlin-Wilmersdorf.
Hedderman will be joined by Aidan Floatinghome on the flute, and folk artist Sarah Buckley from Cork will provide support. Doors open at 7:00 PM, and the event starts at 7:30 PM.
Baroque Evening at Charlottenburg Palace
December 10 and 17
Throughout December, Germany hosts numerous Advert concerts. If you appreciate the harpsichord and would like to hear it in a regal setting, this special Baroque evening might be to your liking.
The Berlin Residence Ensemble, led by Alexandra Rossman, will perform delightful pieces, including Bach's Concerto for Harpsichord in A Major, BWV 1055, and arias from Handel's Messiah, HWV 56.
"Four Seasons" by Vivaldi performed by Festival Orchester Berlin
December 22
For those seeking a cultural pre-Christmas concert, the Festival Orchestra Berlin will perform Vivaldi's "Four Seasons".
The event takes place at the French Friedrichstadt Church at 8:00 PM, and ticket prices are around 38 euros.
New Year's Run (Silvesterlauf 2023)
For those looking to shake off the holiday cobwebs and challenge themselves, Berlin hosts an annual New Year's run.
Organized by SCC Berlin, it involves running around Teufelsberg in Grunewald, with various distances to choose from depending on age and fitness level.
The start time is from 12 to 1 PM, and participation costs range from 10 to 28 euros.
New Year at the Brandenburg Gate
If you want to celebrate in style while avoiding (often hazardous) fireworks on the streets of Berlin, head to the Silvester party at the Brandenburg Gate.
This event, held at Pariser Platz, features professional fireworks, food trucks, and music.
Tickets cost 10 euros per person, and the event runs from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
Related topics:
Tourism in Berlin is heavily influenced by its annual Christmas markets, with renowned markets at Rotes Rathaus, Charlottenburg Palace, Bebelplatz (usually at Gendarmenmarkt), and Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church attracting visitors. Additionally, smaller local markets, such as the arts and crafts market at Leopoldplatz in Wedding, offer unique shopping experiences during the holiday season.
Visitors interested in cultural events can attend the "Four Seasons" by Vivaldi performed by Festival Orchester Berlin, or the Baroque Evening at Charlottenburg Palace featuring harpsichord music. For those seeking a thrill, the New Year's run around Teufelsberg offers various distances to choose from. Lastly, celebrating New Year's Eve in style can be done at the Silvester party at the Brandenburg Gate, featuring professional fireworks, food trucks, and music.
