The 10 Best Events in Berlin in September

September in Berlin is the perfect mix of festivals, culture, sports, and surprises—the city unwinds after the summer rush, but at the same time really starts to come into its own. Here are the 10 best events in Berlin in September with our little tips.

1. Musikfest Berlin (August 30–September 23)

The Musikfest opens the new concert season and brings major international orchestras, conductors, and soloists to Berlin. The repertoire ranges from classical symphonies to modern avant-garde, often in unusual program combinations. Here, tradition and experimentation merge on the stage of the Philharmonie.

Tip: Come early.

2. IFA Berlin (September 5–9)

Every year, the IFA, the world's largest trade fair for consumer electronics and household appliances, presents the latest technology trends – from televisions and smartphones to smart kitchen technology and robotics. The exhibition halls are full of colorful stands, product presentations, test areas, and sometimes even curious inventions that never make it into mass production. If you love technology, you can immerse yourself in the future here.

Tip: Do you have a specific topic in mind (e.g., smart homes)? Then start in the morning, as it gets crowded at lunchtime.

3. Queer Film Festival (September 4–10)

The festival shows films that highlight queer realities – from independent productions and courageous documentaries to acclaimed feature films. It is not only a cinema, but also a meeting place for discussions, panels, and encounters with filmmakers. This creates an intimate space in which stories are told that are often missing elsewhere.

Tip: Seating is limited – secure your tickets in advance and arrive early to get into the festival spirit.

4. Berlin Chili Fest: Harvest Event (September 5–7)

The festival is all about chilies and spicy delights – with countless stands offering sauces, spices, street food, and craft beer. There are also competitions such as the “Chili-Eating Contest” and live music, which further enhances the fiery character of the event. A small market for spice fans and curious visitors alike.

Tip: Sunday afternoon: watch the chili competition – and bring plenty of water...

5th Berlin Perennial Market (September 6–7)

Around 80 nurseries, growers, and plant lovers offer their perennials, herbs, and rare species in the Botanical Garden. Visitors can not only buy plants, but also talk to experts, gather tips for their own gardens or balconies, and discover new trends in the plant world. A green oasis in the middle of the city.

Tip: Come early, Saturdays are the quietest, Sundays are livelier – maybe you'll discover a new favorite herb!

6. Berlin Art Week (September 10–14)

For an entire week, Berlin is transformed into one big stage for contemporary art. Over 100 galleries, project spaces, and museums present new exhibitions, installations, and performances, accompanied by panel discussions and tours. Art Week brings together international collectors, curators, and artists—and makes the scene openly accessible.

Tip: Small galleries are often good for discoveries, large institutions for big names. It's best to mix both.

7. Positions Berlin Art Fair (September 11–14)

In the huge hangars of the former Tempelhof Airport, galleries from all over the world exhibit modern and contemporary art. Between paintings, photography, and installations, an exciting dialogue emerges between established names and young talents. The location itself—raw, vast, and full of history—enhances the special appeal of the fair.

Tip: Combine it with a visit to Tempelhofer Feld – relaxed and urban at the same time.

8. International Literature Festival Berlin (ilb) (September 11–20)

Over 200 authors from all over the world come to Berlin to present new books and discuss current social issues. The program ranges from intimate readings to large discussion panels with political weight. The events that combine literature and other art forms such as theater or music are particularly charming.

Tip: Take it with you in the evening, then enjoy a glass of wine in an old town pub – let the literature linger.

9th Open Monument Day (September 13–14)

For two days, hundreds of monuments, churches, industrial ruins, and villas that are otherwise often closed to the public open their doors. There are guided tours, lectures, and sometimes even small concerts or craft demonstrations. Visitors can rediscover Berlin by delving deep into the stories behind walls and facades.

Tip: Start early, as there are often fewer people and more exciting programs on offer in the morning.

10th Giant Kite Festival (September 27)

On the vast Tempelhofer Feld, giant kites of all colors and shapes soar into the sky – some over 30 meters long. In addition to demonstrations by professionals, there are also workshops where families can build and fly their own kites. The whole thing is a big, cheerful folk festival with picnic blankets and autumn atmosphere, for children and adults alike.

Tip: Bring a picnic, fly a kite (or watch) – autumn atmosphere at its best.

Bonus event: Berlin Marathon (September 21)

Tens of thousands of runners from all over the world take to the starting line, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of spectators lining the streets. Bands, DJs, and cheering squads create an incredible atmosphere along the route. The finish line at the Brandenburg Gate is a spine-tingling moment every year—for athletes and spectators alike.

Tip: For me, the spectator spots at the Victory Column or the Brandenburg Gate are real goose bump moments.

September in Berlin is a perfect mix: art, sports, film, literature, food, technology – all with a relaxed autumnal touch. My personal favorite? Hard to say – but Berlin Chili Fest for the brave, Art Week & ilb for the mind and heart, and the Giant Kite Festival for beautiful autumn moments. And of course, not to forget: the marathon – the fastest marathon in the world.