Berlin’s summer and fall events keep up the city’s reputation as the cultural forerunner

Few cities are capable of blending history and culture quite like Berlin. The German capital has long been known for its cultural scene. It is ever-burgeoning, growing, and the name Berlin has become synonymous to culture of various types. Local and international acts, thoughts and presentations come together to give us events as varied and interesting as the city itself; below are a few notable events to send you swimming in this dynamic cultural ocean that is Berlin.

Art Exhibitions

The Art of Banksy February 16th, 2018 – January 15th, 2019

Infamously famous, Banksy’s name carries a reputation with it. Curated by the artist’s former manager, who has put this exhibition together from private and his personal collection, it offers us a unique chance to view the largest collection of the street artist’s most intense and controversial works. Original paintings, sculptures, and canvases will be presented together with selected photos to provide context.

Gerhard Richter: Abstraction June 30th – October 7th, 2018

The Abstraction exhibition is a stunning dive into the most poignant work of the artist. Beginning with his works in the 1960’s and progressing through to the present, this exhibition follows his progression into the abstract world and qualities of his art.

10th Berlin Biennale June 9th – September 9th, 2018

Germany’s second most important contemporary arts event returns this year for its 10th edition. A team of curators from around the globe are selecting the Berlin-based artists who will present many new works by renowned and emerging artists. This year’s event, entitled We Don’t Need Another Hero, intends to spark dialogue about the major geopolitical shifts, self-preservation, and a confrontation to “widespread states of collective psychosis”, among other topics. An excellent area to broaden your mind and see some up-and-coming artists from this engaging city.

Opera

Mozart’s The Magic Flute September 8th – November 4th, 2018

The Komische Oper Berlin presents a beautifully absurd blend of animation and live music, this fantasy opera has caused excited uproar wherever it goes. The loony fantasy blends humour with German Expressionism, creating an ever-entertaining experience and provoking questions without answers. Fanciful, thoughtful, possibly insightful, certainly excellent.

Concerts

Classic Open Air at Gendarmenmarkt July 5th-9th, 2018

For four evenings in July, classical music will fill the air of the spectacular Gendarmenmarkt. A very befitting venue, this square is replete with elegant classical architecture, thus making for a breathtaking and picture perfect venue for this open air festival. Beyond just classical music, this year’s programme also includes jazz and rock music to suit everyone’s taste.

Young Euro Classic August 3rd-20th, 2018

The Young Euro Classic offers a unique opportunity to see some of the best up-and-coming musicians from around the world in a 17 day festival. Youth orchestras from more than 10 different countries as far and wide as the U.S., England, South Africa, Georgia, Russia and New Zealand perform at the beautiful Gendarmenmarkt and learn how music and coexistence can help form the values of the younger generation.

Events

MakeCity June 14th – July 1st, 2018

MakeCity is an international, city-wide discussion on the role of a city in our everyday lives as inhabitants. As we realise more and more the important role of the city, festivals such as this become increasingly relevant to forming alternative urban thought. With over 120 events, including (but not limited to) urban tours, exhibitions, workshops, and discussions taking place over 17 days, MakeCity seeks to encourage critical thought and debate, open new perspectives and provide insightful discourse on civic participation, urban/natural spaces, planning and architecture, among other topics.