Berlin becomes romantic at Christmas time. The otherwise gray winter is gilded by the city’s most beautiful Christmas markets – or at least gives it a touch of glitter. And while we’re indulging in the Christmas spirit, other winter activities are not far away: these include ice skating and curling, but just as well: Christmas caroling.
But we don’t mean the forced serenade with the family during the holidays. Because in Berlin, every year there is also a joint Christmas carol singing event organized by 1. FC Union Berlin! You can really get into the festive spirit in the soccer stadium. Are you in the mood? This year, the Berlin tradition will take place again on December 23 at 7 pm.
Tradition and reflection since 2003
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The charm of this Christmas carol sing lies in its contrast: the raw backdrop of a soccer stadium, normally a place of tension and fan chants, is transformed into an atmospheric and almost reverent space just in time for Christmas. Goosebumps guaranteed!
The Union fans spontaneously created this special event in 2003. Even back then, they thought: why shouldn’t their home ground also be available for other atmospheric events? Even though soccer is usually rather loud, the Stadion An der Alten Försterei can also provide other moments. During Christmas carol singing, the backdrop is transformed into a monument to tranquillity – above and beyond local pride.
This is what awaits you at the Christmas singing
If you get your tickets in time(preferably via the website), you can sing along with thousands of other people. Each visitor will receive or bring a candle, which will bathe the stadium in a gigantic, sparkling sea of lights.
The songs range from traditional classics to modern hits. The collective singing is usually supported by choirs such as the Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin or the Union Choir. And don’t worry if you don’t know the words: the lyrics to all the songs are displayed on the scoreboards in the stadium. Experience a sense of community that goes beyond the club boundaries . The proceeds are usually donated.