Berlin 2026/27 - the main events
Events, exhibitions, new openings
Current highlights in Berlin:
- Festival of Lights in October 2026
- Exhibition opening: Genghis Khan on Museum Island in October 2026
- The world-famous Pergamon Altar to be on display again from June 2027
Completed in July 2027: gigantic staircase in front of the Humboldt Forum by the water
Annual highlights in Berlin 2026/27
Autumn 2026: The Festival of Lights enchants the city
9 to 18 October 2026
Under the theme ‘Colours of Love’, the Festival of Lights’ dazzling light art once again enchants buildings and squares across Berlin. But it’s not just the Brandenburg Gate, the TV Tower or Potsdamer Platz that are transformed into magical spectacles by the colourful, creative illuminations. Be sure to visit the Nikolaiviertel and the Olympic Stadium in western Berlin too.
Top autumn exhibition on Museum Island: Genghis Khan!
21 October 2026 to 18 April 2027
This major exhibition at the James Simon Gallery showcases unique artefacts from the mysterious world of the Mongols, whose ruler Genghis Khan – as famous today as he was then – founded a global empire 800 years ago , thereby changing the world. You will gain an understanding of the nomadic horsemen of that era and see true archaeological treasures from Mongolia, which have never before been shown in Europe, as well as valuable loans from Poland, Romania and Berlin institutions. The exhibition opening will coincide with the state visit of the Mongolian President.
Global commitment to democracy and freedom: Berlin Freedom Week
7 to 14 November 2026
Berlin invites you to Freedom Week – the capital’s new initiative for freedom and democracy. To mark the 37th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, experience cultural events, workshops and other interactive activities for Berliners and international guests alike. The highlight is the international Berlin Freedom Conference on 10 November 2026, which brings together committed voices from politics, civil society and the cultural sector for discussion on stage.
After hit musicals such as Ku’damm 56, Romeo & Julia and Die Amme, Peter Plate and Ulf Leo Sommer now present their most personal project yet: WIR SIND AM LEBEN tells a story of family, freedom and the spirit of life in early 1990s Berlin. Now at the TdW!
From November 2026: Winter and Christmas markets all over the city
There are plenty of ways to embrace and enjoy the build-up to the festive season in Berlin: throughout the city , the most beautiful and diverse Christmas markets attract visitors in December . As early as November, you can treat yourself to crispy waffles and hot drinks at the winter markets.
Highlight 2027: The Pergamon Museum opens its doors
4 June 2027
Museum Island is celebrating its 5th anniversary, and 2027 is undoubtedly the highlight: The Pergamon Museum, the heart of Museum Island, an absolute crowd-puller and world-famous since it opened, will reopen its doors in 2027 – meaning that two-thirds of the museum’s total floor space will be on display once more, freshly renovated. The gigantic Pergamon Altar – which hasn’t been on display for many years – has been restored and is once again open to everyone to visit – and to climb.
It all kicks off in 2027: sunbathing right by the Spree in front of the Humboldt Forum
July 2027
The ground-breaking ceremony took place in 2025, and the project is expected to take two years: from July 2027, right in the heart of Berlin’s historic centre, a tall, 38-metre-wide open staircase in front of the Humboldt Forum, right by the water’s edge, will invite you to sunbathe and relax.
Important events in Berlin 2026
Make a note of the most important events and visit the most beautiful places in Berlin!
New and spectacular in the city:
The first European location of the world-famous Cirque du Soleil was developed exclusively for the theatre at Potsdamer Platz in Berlin. With "Acromagic", ALIZÉ invites you on a fantastic journey to the boundaries between illusion and reality.
Where: Permanent residency at the theatre at Potsdamer Platz
The new Grand Show BLINDED by DELIGHT takes you on a moving journey into the world of dreams and happiness. Experience dazzling show entertainment with over 100 wonderful artists on the largest theatre stage in the world
Fancy a taste of the latest food trends? Every autumn, Berlin’s thriving restaurant scene and numerous event venues become the setting for a major festival: for a whole week, you can feast on culinary traditions and innovations across Berlin.
When: 5 to 11 October 2026
Where: various dining venues across the city
Every year, as the days grow darker once more, Berlin becomes particularly bright: throughout the city, landmarks, monuments and squares are bathed in artistic light installations. Berlin glows with colourful illuminations until late into the night.
When: 9 to 18 October 2026
Where: various buildings, squares and monuments in Berlin
Look forward to Berlin’s first Christmas markets, which open on 23 November. But even in the weeks leading up to this, you can already enjoy fragrant waffles and hot drinks at the winter markets.
When: November & December 2026
Where: various streets and squares throughout the city
Berlin International Green Week 2027
Around 1,400 exhibitors from 60 countries will be showcasing the latest international trends in food, agriculture and horticulture. Of particular interest to the younger generation: finding out about training programmes and work experience opportunities.
When: 15 to 24 January 2027
Where: Berlin Exhibition Centre
Berlin Fashion Week – Winter 2027
As every year, the international fashion scene takes centre stage in Berlin on the catwalk, at exclusive and public events, and at exhibitions and conferences. The key themes for 2027 are freedom, inclusion and sustainability.
When: 29 January to 1 February 2027
Where: various venues across Berlin
Berlinale 2027
77th Berlin International Film Festival
At the Berlinale, the world’s largest film festival for the general public, hundreds of new films and documentaries are screened and discussed every year. International stars and up-and-coming talents alike take to the red carpet during the glamorous evening events.
When: 10 to 21 February 2027
Where: various venues in Berlin
EMOP Berlin – European Month of Photography 2027
Germany’s largest photography festival celebrates the art of photography in Berlin with over 100 exhibitions and around 500 international artists. In 2027, the exhibitions will be held under the theme ‘Common Ground. Letters from Europe’ and will focus on the personal form of the letter and on the things we share, lose, demand and renegotiate.
When: 4 March to 4 April 2027
Where: Museums, galleries, institutions and project spaces in Berlin and Potsdam
FESTIVAL
In 2027, the Staatsoper’s FESTTAGE will delight audiences with Richard Wagner’s *Tannhäuser* and Giacomo Puccini’s *Manon Lescaut*. You can also enjoy a special recital featuring the outstanding soprano Joyce DiDonato, accompanied on the piano by Craig Terry.
When: 20 to 29 March 2027
Where: Staatsoper Unter den Linden
Gallery Weekend Berlin
During Gallery Weekend, more than 50 galleries across the city will showcase new artistic works by both emerging and established artists. It’s also a popular gathering place for collectors, curators, journalists and art lovers.
When: 30 April to 2 May 2027
Where: Galleries across the city
Carnival of Cultures
The highlight of the Whitsun weekend in Berlin every year: visitors from all over the world celebrate a lively four-day street festival with multicultural parades through the city. The focus is on cultural openness and diversity.
When: 14 to 17 May 2027
Where: Streets in Berlin – Kreuzberg
Fête de la Musique
Across the capital, amateur and professional musicians celebrate the start of summer in the streets, parks and squares. Whatever the genre – here, musicians play for free and without a fee in front of an audience.
When: 21 June 2027
Where: throughout Berlin
