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 18 to 21 May. 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 (20 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. Neuköllner Maientage at Volkspark Hasenheide will have its final weekend, closing 21 May. The usual fair atmosphere will reign, including carousels, shows, and live music for lots of fun. And don't forget to stay for the fireworks at 10 pm Saturday.
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 19 to 21 May, 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
The DFB Cup Final at Berlin Olympic Stadium on 19 May marks the end of the Bundesliga football season. The winner qualifies for the UEFA Europa League. Many places, restaurants, and bars offer options to watch the action with hundreds of your closest friends. The Run of Spirit on 21 May is a shared sporting experience for people with and without disabilities. Around one thousand participants will run various distances through Spandau Forest during the sporting event.
