Das Winter-Film-Fest im Nikolaiviertel

What makes the Winter Film Festival in the Nikolaiviertel a top recommendation?

The Winter Film Festival takes place annually in Berlin’s historic Nikolaiviertel. For over ten years, it has attracted people with the cult film “Die Feuerzangenbowle” (The Fire-Tong Punch) from 1944. It is shown several times a day free of charge. The event combines film with the atmospheric backdrop of the car-free Nikolaikirchplatz. The district is lovingly restored and transports visitors into a nostalgic bygone era. The Winter Film Festival offers a relaxed alternative to large Christmas markets and has established itself as an integral part of Berlin’s winter activities. Admission is free.

What winter highlights can guests particularly look forward to?

The highlight is the classic black-and-white film “Die Feuerzangenbowle” (The Fire-Tong Punch) starring Heinz Rühmann. Several times a day, comfortable seating with cozy blankets invites visitors to relax and watch the film. Fittingly, the traditional Fire-Tong Punch is served. This hot drink made from red wine with spices and caramelized sugar is prepared in a historic copper kettle and provides pleasant warmth. Small snacks are available at nostalgic market stalls. On some Advent Sundays, “Die Herrn von der Tankstelle” (The Gentlemen from the Gas Station) entertain with Schlager hits from old UFA films, bringing humor and nostalgia to the Nikolaiviertel.

What should you know before visiting the Winter Film Festival in Nikolaiviertel?

The film festival is open daily from 12:00 to 22:00, only remaining closed on Christmas Eve. Films run at fixed times with three screenings per day: weekdays at 17:00 and 19:30, and on weekends an additional screening at 14:30. Admission is free, so an early visit is advisable to secure seats. The Nikolaiviertel is easily accessible by public transport, for example, by S-Bahn or U-Bahn towards Alexanderplatz. Tip: Look for people with the surname Pfeiffer, as they receive a free fire-tong punch hourly. The visit can be perfectly combined with a stroll through the small shops or a detour to the Berlin Cathedral.

Editor’s Conclusion

Our editorial team has been visiting the Winter Film Festival in the Nikolaiviertel for several years now and we have thoroughly enjoyed the wintry ambiance. The combination of the iconic film, the authentic Fire-Tong Punch, and the charismatic Nikolaiviertel creates a wonderful winter experience. The film screenings, free admission, and cozy atmosphere make the festival a highly recommended winter leisure activity.