May is the unofficial start of summer and there's a lot to do in the German capital. It is the season for street parties, flea markets, and open-air events to mark the first warm rays of sunshine. Many events will be taking place outside over the long Whitsun/Pentecost weekend from 30 May to 1 June. We have put together the best tips for you.
Street fairs and festivals
Pentecost (Whitsun) in Berlin means four days full of music, dance, art, and culture! From Friday to Monday of that weekend, Kreuzberg's Blücherplatz is transformed into the Carnival of Cultures, a colourful street party with live music, culinary delights and crafts from around the world. The highlight is the big carnival parade on Pentecost Sunday (31 May). Some four thousand people including folklore groups and samba dancers will take the fun to the streets of Berlin in celebration of the city's diversity.
The Carnival of Cultures has been cancelled.
Concerts
The Jazz im Park festival in Pankow's Bürgerpark is a family-friendly jazz experience for Pentecost. In addition to the music on offer, exhibitions, carousels, and bouncy castles guarantee a fun time for visitors of all ages.
Special folk festival with lake views: from 30 May to 1 June, the Spandau Whitsun Concerts offer traditional music plus a colorful array of events for the whole family.
Worship
Information about worship opportunities can be found on the websites of the Archdiocese of Berlin and the Evangelical Church of Berlin-Brandenburg. Pentecost Sunday is also the traditional day for church open houses. About 100 churches all over Berlin will offer readings, concerts, tower climbs, and organ tours.
Sporting highlights
Run of Spirit will enter its eleventh round on 1st June. In the Spandauer Forst, the runners will compete together at the sports festival of the Protestant Johannesstift. The vision of the race: People with and without disabilities shall experience and share the joy of sport together. At distances of 550 metres or 10 kilometres, it is possible to run as a team or as a family.
