Culture Calendar: February 2025
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE
Berlinale Film Festival. Photo: Sandra Weller
February shines with cultural highlights, including the extravagant Cologne Carnival in the Rhineland and the star-studded Berlinale Film Festival. From vibrant trade fairs to glittering red carpets, there’s something to captivate every traveller this month across the DACH region.
White Turf, St Moritz. Photo: R. Walch
118 WHITE TURF – INTERNATIONAL HORSERACES, ST. MORITZ (2, 9 & 16 FEBRUARY)
The White Turf is a must-see for horse-racing enthusiasts, celebrated for its grandeur and prestige. Hosted each year in the famed ski resort of St. Moritz, it boasts top-level horse racing, gourmet cuisine, live music and much more. With magnificent horses thundering across the ice and champagne flowing freely, all against the sparkling backdrop of a frozen lake, it’s an event like no other.
White Turf, St Moritz. Photo: A.Furger
75TH BERLINALE – BERLIN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (13 – 23 FEBRUARY)
Each year, the Berlin International Film Festival, widely known as the Berlinale, transforms Germany’s dynamic capital into a hub of cinematic excitement for ten days. Attracting a constellation of A-list filmmakers and celebrities, the event dazzles with a bustling red carpet and prestigious award ceremonies. Showcasing a wonderful range of films from around the globe, the Berlinale remains a premier celebration of international cinema.
VALENTINE’S MARATHON, BERLIN (16 FEBRUARY)
Invite your partner, a friend or bring your kids to this fun, laid-back sporting event that caters to all ages. The scenic route winds through the Gärten der Welt, where you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and cultural garden designs. After crossing the finish line, you can treat yourself to a warm cup of mulled wine for a truly cosy and rewarding end to the run.
f.re.e leisure and travel fair, Munich 2024. Photo: Messe München GmbH
F.RE.E LEISURE AND TRAVEL FAIR, MUNICH (19 – 23 FEBRUARY)
The f.re.e leisure and travel fair is a comprehensive showcase catering to all manner of travel interests. From the latest in caravans and cutting-edge biking gear to kayaking equipment and climbing walls set up alongside simulated lakes, there’s something for every adventurer. Held annually in Munich, the event attracts exhibitors from over 50 countries, making it a must-visit destination for globetrotters seeking fresh inspiration.
f.re.e leisure and travel fair, Munich 2024. Photo: Messe München GmbH
TANZOLYMP – INTERNATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL, BERLIN (20 – 25 FEBRUARY)
Tanzolymp, which translates to ‘Dance Olympus’, is an international festival that truly lives up to its name by bringing together aspiring dancers from around the world. Hosted in Berlin, it welcomes participants aged 10 to 21 from numerous countries. The festival’s main goal is to encourage the younger generation to appreciate and embrace dance as an art form.
Kaffeesiederball, Vienna. Photo: Katharina Schiffl
66TH BALL OF THE COFFEEBREWERS, VIENNA (21 FEBRUARY)
The Kaffeesiederball (Ball of the Coffeebrewers) promises an unforgettable evening filled with breathtaking gowns, the refinement of classical music, and a fairy-tale ambience. Held at the splendid Imperial Palace, this remarkable venue heightens the charm and perfectly embodies the spirit of a traditional Viennese ball.
67TH VIENNA OPERA BALL, VIENNA (27 FEBRUARY)
Undeniably the crown jewel of Vienna’s ball calendar, the Vienna Opera Ball attracts international socialites and stars from around the world. First held in 1877, this event has lost none of its splendour over the centuries. Step onto Vienna’s most glamorous dance floor alongside the debutantes and experience an evening of timeless elegance.
www.wiener-staatsoper.at/opernball
Photo: Pixabay
COLOGNE CARNIVAL (27 FEBRUARY – 5 MARCH)
Affectionately dubbed the ‘fifth season’, the Cologne Carnival makes its eagerly awaited return each year. Beloved by millions, this vibrant fancy dress street party is the Rhineland’s most significant and exuberant event. Imagine streets teeming with people in elaborate costumes, the air alive with traditional carnival tunes, and parades adorned with decorations and candies. Kölle Alaaf!
www.koelntourismus.de/sehen-erleben/karneval
Photo: Pixabay
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