Winter Film Fest at Nikolaiviertel

In Nikolaikirchplatz during Advent, only one film is shown: “Die Feuerzangenbowle” with Heinz Rühmann from 1943, approximately 90 minutes long. It is screened in a wooden house equipped with armchairs, sofas, and blankets. Among Berlin's winter leisure activities, this has the lowest barrier: admission is free.

Winter Film Festival in Nikolaiviertel: Location and Directions at Nikolaikirchplatz

The Winter Film Festival in Nikolaiviertel takes place at Nikolaikirchplatz, right next to St. Nicholas Church in Berlin’s oldest settlement core. The district is located between the Rotes Rathaus (Red City Hall) and the Spree river; the pastel-colored townhouses and cobblestone streets surrounding it provide the square’s backdrop. St. Nicholas Church next to it is Berlin’s oldest preserved sacred building and gives the square its name; the district is considered the city’s oldest residential area. The journey by public transport is short: from U-Bahn station Rotes Rathaus on line U5, it’s about 300 meters, and from U-Bahn station Klosterstraße on U2, it’s about the same distance. Those coming by tram alight at the Spandauer Straße/Marienkirche stop and walk just under 500 meters from there. There is no dedicated parking, and the district itself is almost entirely car-free, so arrival by bus and train is recommended. Around the square, during the festival, there are nostalgic market stalls serving Feuerzangenbowle, Glühwein (mulled wine), Jagertee, hot chocolate, and children’s punch.

Die Feuerzangenbowle in the Wooden House at the Winter Film Festival in Nikolaiviertel

Only one film is shown exclusively: “Die Feuerzangenbowle” from 1943, starring Heinz Rühmann in the role of the student Pfeiffer. The classic lasts approximately 90 minutes and is screened in a specially constructed wooden house where guests sit not on folding chairs, but in armchairs and on sofas. Blankets are provided, so the screening can be enjoyed even in frosty weather. Admission is free, and there are no tickets or reservations, so those who want a seat should arrive on time. The festival’s namesake is the drink itself: Feuerzangenbowle is prepared in a copper kettle from red wine and spices, with a rum-soaked sugarloaf burning above it. Anyone named Pfeiffer, with three f’s, receives a complimentary cup of it hourly. Because the Christmas market in Nikolaiviertel is right next door, a visit to the film can be easily combined with a stroll through the alleys.