January has a bad reputation in Berlin. Gray, cold, everyone tired from the New Year’s celebrations. But unfairly so! While the city outside is still on winter break, Berlin is already buzzing culturally, athletically, and creatively. Anyone thinking, “Ah, January is quiet anyway,” is missing out. Here’s our guide to the most exciting events this January – from NBA action to dance and film, and even trade shows where you’ll take away more than just flyers.
The year starts right on January 1st with the New Year’s Run at the Brandenburg Gate. Whether it’s an ambitious resolution or just a jog in your sneakers, it’s a perfect way to kick off the year. A real highlight follows on January 15th: the NBA comes to Berlin! With the game Orlando Magic vs. Memphis Grizzlies, the UBS Arena temporarily becomes a basketball hotspot. Even non-hardcore fans will enjoy the experience. At the end of the month, things get loud and fast at the Velodrom: SixDay Berlin combines track cycling with party vibes, music, and stadium atmosphere. Sports to get excited about – no expert knowledge required. Here’s an overview:
January is peak festival time in Berlin. First up are the TanzTage Berlin (January 8–24), bringing contemporary dance to venues all over the city. Experimental, surprising, and definitely not for the bored. Musically, the Ultraschall Festival (January 14–18) is all about new and experimental sounds. Those willing to listen openly will be rewarded. Starting January 23, the CTM Festival takes over the city with electronic music, art, discourse, and long nights. Berlin doing Berlin things – exactly the way we love it.
Film fans aren’t left out either: the British Shorts Film Festival starting January 22 screens over 150 short films, proving that great cinema doesn’t always have to be feature-length. And on January 17, the European Film Awards bring a touch of glamour right into the heart of winter.
💃 TanzTage Berlin
📅 January 8–24
Contemporary dance festival at various venues across the city
🎼 Ultraschall Festival
📅 January 14–18
Festival dedicated to new and experimental music
🏆 European Film Awards
📅 January 17
International film awards with a touch of glamour
🎞️ British Shorts Film Festival
📅 From January 22
Short film festival featuring over 150 British productions
🎧 CTM Festival
📅 From January 23
Electronic music, art, discourse, and long Berlin nights
A January classic is the International Green Week (January 16–25). Between street food, agriculture, sustainability, and international specialties, it’s easy to lose half a day—and you’ll rarely leave hungry. A bit more niche, but no less exciting, is the European Camera Fair on January 17. A meeting point for photography enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone who loves to browse. On January 24–25, the Love Circus Bash Wedding Festival shows that weddings can be modern, creative, and anything but kitsch. Inspiration is guaranteed—even if you have no wedding plans. The month closes with the World Money Fair (January 29–31). Sounds dry at first, but it’s surprisingly international, historically rich, and fascinating.
👉 Here’s our ultimate guide to make sure you’re fully prepared for Berlin’s trade fairs in 2026.
For those who want to take January a little slower, the Christmas Garden Berlin is the perfect retreat. Until January 12, the Botanical Garden Berlin is transformed into an atmospheric winter wonderland featuring artistic light installations, projections, and immersive soundscapes.
Visitors follow a set circular path through illuminated gardens, past glowing trees, gentle color displays, and serene light compositions. The Christmas Garden is ideal for anyone looking to escape the city bustle for a while—alone, as a couple, or with family. The walk typically takes 60 to 90 minutes, takes place in the evening after dark, and remains a magical experience even in cold winter weather. Warm clothing is recommended, as the entire route is outdoors.
🎟️ Tickets are available online in advance and are timed to ensure a relaxed visit.
📍 Location: Botanischer Garten Berlin, Lichterfelde
👥 Best for: Couples, families, those seeking peace, photography enthusiasts
Berlin doesn’t take a break in January either. The month is perfect for discovering something new, enjoying events without the summer crowds, and remembering why this city is so special—even in winter. So: grab your calendar, mark the dates, and give January a real chance.
For major highlights like the NBA game, festivals, or trade fairs, it’s recommended to buy tickets in advance. Smaller events, exhibitions, or side programs often allow for spontaneous visits.
(Dates here are from 2025, but similar events are regularly offered in January 2026 — many venues host ongoing free comedy nights, e.g., in Kreuzberg’s cultural and comedy scene.)
Daily free cultural activities, especially worth checking out in winter:
Many festivals, trade fairs, and film events are international and partly English-speaking. Typical for Berlin—so you can manage well even without perfect German skills