Anzeige / Werbung
From January 23 to February 1, 2026, Berlin once again becomes the global capital of experimental sound and electronic culture. The CTM Festival brings together music lovers, researchers, and creative minds to explore how sound shapes our world. With this year’s theme, “dissonate <> resonate”, the festival dives deep into the relationship between disharmony and reverberation — between tension and togetherness.
Founded in 1999, CTM is one of Berlin’s most respected festivals for adventurous music and digital art. Over ten days, it presents concerts, club nights, art installations, films, and talks across venues such as Berghain, HAU Hebbel am Ufer, Kunstquartier Bethanien, and for the first time, the House of Visionaries. Each location creates a different atmosphere — from dark techno basements to immersive listening rooms.
The 2026 edition focuses on how artists deal with dissonance in society and sound — a reflection of the world’s complexity. Expect innovative performances, boundary-pushing collaborations, and nights that blur the line between concert and club.
Late January and early February mark the heart of Berlin’s winter. Average temperatures range from –2 °C to 5 °C, with possible snow or cold rain. Streets can be slippery, and evenings are chilly, so wear warm layers, a hat, and waterproof shoes. Inside venues, it’s cozy — dancing will keep you warm!
Before heading out each night, check the Berlin hourly weather to see if you need an umbrella, thicker gloves, or extra time for public transport.
Weather tip: Many CTM locations are close to the Spree — it can feel colder near the river. A wind-resistant jacket makes a big difference.
CTM takes place across central Berlin, so public transport is your best friend. The BVG network runs efficiently even in winter.
Each CTM venue has its own character. Here are a few highlights:
The festival connects club culture with academia — it’s not only for partygoers but for anyone curious about how sound influences emotion, politics, and technology.
Berlin’s nightlife is casual: creativity counts more than dress codes.
After an intense performance, Berlin offers countless spots to refuel. Here are three favorites near CTM venues:
Explore more places via Google Search.
CTM 2026 isn’t just concerts — it’s dialogue. During the day, panels and workshops at HAU and Kunstquartier Bethanien discuss AI in music, inclusive dance, and the role of sound in social movements. At night, the city transforms into a sonic playground.
The “dissonate <> resonate” theme encourages listeners to question comfort zones. Expect noise colliding with melody, silence mixed with bass, and artists who push boundaries of performance and perception.
Berliners see CTM as more than a festival — it’s a mirror of the city’s identity. Each edition highlights Berlin’s openness, creativity, and experimentation. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or first-time visitor, CTM invites you to listen differently — to the music, to others, and to the city itself.
Q: Do I need a festival pass?
A: You can buy individual event tickets or full festival passes online. Some workshops require registration.
Q: Is the festival suitable for newcomers?
A: Absolutely. CTM welcomes everyone curious about contemporary music and culture.
Q: Are venues accessible?
A: Most CTM locations offer barrier-free access — check details on each venue’s page.
Q: What’s the best time to go?
A: Weekend nights are busiest; weekday concerts are perfect for smaller crowds.
The CTM Festival 2026 is where ideas meet rhythm, and winter turns into movement. Plan your routes, check the Berlin hourly weather, dress warm, and let yourself resonate with the city’s pulse. Whether you come for a deep-listening concert or an all-night party, CTM reminds us that even in cold January, Berlin never stops creating sound, warmth, and connection.
More info: ctm-festival.de
Anzeige / Werbung