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February in Berlin: Culture, Berlinale, Trade Fairs & Carnival

February in Berlin: Culture, Berlinale, Trade Fairs & Carnival BG
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February in Berlin is a feast for the senses, offering a lively mix of culture, trade fairs, and traditional celebrations – the perfect chance to experience the capital in all its diversity. From gripping theater performances and world-class film festivals to cutting-edge exhibitions, professional trade fairs, and exuberant carnival parties, Berlin has something to delight everyone.

💃 Culture, Berlinale & more

„Salome“ at the Schaubühne

The play tells the story of a young woman caught between male desire, religious fanaticism, and the search for ultimate fulfillment. Intense theater with live music – gripping, unsettling, and highly relevant. By the way, the Schaubühne is just a five-minute walk from our Serviced Apartments at Kudamm 69.

Stadtbad RELOADED: BEYOND

Experience Stadtbad Lichtenberg in a completely new way: until the end of March, the historic swimming pool transforms into a stage for immersive digital art, mesmerizing light installations, and impressive soundscapes. Stadtbad RELOADED: BEYOND combines the unique charm of Berlin’s history with visionary media technology.

Berlinale: Thursday to Sunday (12–22 February 2026)

The cultural highlight of February? Without a doubt: the Berlinale! It’s confirmed: the amazing Michelle Yeoh from Everything Everywhere All At Once and Wicked will receive the Golden Honorary Bear. The full program – featuring over 200 films, screening times, and ticket information – will be available from 3 February.

🎥 Opening Film: No Good Men – Shahrbanoo Sadat
A drama about a female camerawoman in Kabul navigating societal and personal boundaries. World premiere as the opening film of Berlinale 2026 on 12 February. A perfect introduction to the festival and the Berlinale experience!

Competition for the Golden Bear
These films are competing in the official competition and are highlights for cinema enthusiasts:

🎥 At the Sea – Kornél Mundruczó with Amy Adams
A soul-searching drama about return and new beginnings, featuring a major Hollywood cast.

🎥 A New Dawn – Anime film by Yoshitoshi Shinomiya
Stylistically unusual for the competition, offering a fascinating glimpse across genre boundaries.

🎥 À voix basse (“In a Whisper”) – Leyla Bouzid
A family drama about identity, secrets, and personal discoveries.

🎥 Dao – Alain Gomis
Interweaves family stories between France and Guinea-Bissau.

🎥 Dust – Anke Blondé
A drama about responsibility, deception, and self-reflection.

German Entries in the Competition

🎥 Yellow Letters – İlker Çatak
Political family drama of an artist couple in Istanbul.

🎥 Something Very Special (Home Stories) – Eva Trobisch
A search for identity in the context of a casting show environment.

🎥 My Wife Cries – Angela Schanelec
A complex drama about marriage and love.

Panorama & International Cinema

🎥 Only Rebels Win – Danielle Arbid
A love and life story set in Beirut; strong performances with a warm storytelling tone.

🎥 Allegro Pastell – Anna Roller
German Panorama drama exploring relationships and (digital) distance.

Forum / Generation

🎥 Everyone’s Sorry Nowadays – Generation Kplus
A heartfelt coming-of-age story based on a novel, part of the youth program.

🌱 Trade Fairs & Special Discoveries

      • The month kicks off on 1 February with the Terraristikbörse Berlin, a specialist fair for reptiles, amphibians, and terrarium accessories.
      • From 4–6 February, the international trade fair Fruit Logistica focuses on fruit, vegetables, logistics, and trade.
      • On 7–8 February, WeinBerlin invites wine lovers to tastings, new vintages, and conversations with winemakers.
      • In mid-February, from 13–15 February, Spirituality & Healing explores esotericism, wellness, lectures, and workshops.
      • On 14 February, two events take place simultaneously: Stuzubi, a career fair for students, graduates, and young professionals, and the wedding fair “Liebe ist …”, showcasing the latest trends, ideas, and vendors for the most beautiful day of your life.

      👉 A complete overview of all trade fairs in Berlin for 2026 can be found here.

      🤡 Carnival in Berlin

      Who would have thought that the trendy capital also celebrates Weiberfastnacht and Rosenmontag so exuberantly? Here are the best carnival parties:

      12 February (Weiberfastnacht)

      Weiberfastnacht party at LOCI LOFT – a big carnival event with a DJ, Kölsch hits, and costumes from 7:00 PM.

      13 February (Friday)

      Grand carnival party at LOCI LOFT with a live band and DJ.

      14 February (Saturday)

      “Carnival of the Animals” – a family concert at the Berlin Philharmonie.

      15 February (Sunday

      Family carnival with entertainment program.

      16 February (Rosenmontag)

      • Carnival parties and events, e.g., Chaos Royal at BKA Theater.
      • Cultural alternative: Carnaval Baile da Bossa at Festsaal Kreuzberg.

      How cold is Berlin in February, and what should I wear?

      February is wintery, often around -1°C to 5°C (30–40°F). Pack warm layers, a waterproof coat, gloves, and comfortable shoes for walking between events.

      How can I get around Berlin during festivals and trade fairs?

      Berlin has excellent public transport — U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses. During major events like Berlinale, taxis and rideshares are also available, but expect higher demand.

      Are Berlinale screenings available in English?

      Most international films are shown with English subtitles. Some panels or talks may also be in English, but check the Berlinale program for specifics.