Barenpaadiie Hamburg 2026
- 16 - 19 Jan 2025
- Hamburg
Bärenpaadiie Hamburg is one of Europe’s largest and longest‑running bear weekends, organised by the volunteer club Nordbären Hamburg e.V. Each January the city’s bars, saunas and iconic Markthalle concert venue fill with thousands of bears, chubs, chasers and their friends who travel from across Germany and abroad to celebrate community and diversity. After a successful return to full scale gatherings, the organisers expect the 2025 edition to be one of the busiest yet as more than 1,600 visitors make the pilgrimage to the Hanseatic city.
**Dates and schedule for 2025**
The 2025 Bärenpaadiie will run from **Thursday 16 January to Sunday 19 January 2025**. The event spans four days of social activities, allowing visitors to arrive early or stay late and take in Hamburg’s sights while meeting fellow bear fans. On Thursday evening, early arrivals typically meet up in the gay district of St Georg for drinks and dinner at cosy bars. Friday is when the organised programme begins in earnest. From the early afternoon the **Dragon Sauna Delight** takes over Hamburg’s Dragon Sauna, giving guests a chance to unwind, enjoy the whirlpool and steam rooms and make new friends in a relaxed setting. Later that evening the action moves to the bunker‑style nightclub **Uebel & Gefährlich** for the **Giant Welcome Club** party. The industrial atmosphere of the former air raid shelter provides the perfect backdrop for pounding beats from guest DJs and a chance to dance the night away.
Saturday is the busiest day of the weekend and offers a mix of daytime events and nightlife. In the morning the **Bear Bowling** tournament sees teams of bears take over a local bowling alley for a playful competition. Later many guests join the **Harbour Cruise Tour** along the River Elbe. The two‑hour cruise showcases Hamburg’s maritime landmarks such as the Elbphilharmonie concert hall and provides an excellent opportunity to socialise while taking in the city from the water. Saturday night is when the legendary **Bärenpaadiie XXL** party takes place. Held at **Markthalle Hamburg (Klosterwall 11)** from 20:00 until late, this multi‑level dance event features two dance floors, four DJs spinning everything from schlager to house, a lounge area for chatting and a large foyer. With a capacity of over 1,600 people it is widely considered the biggest bear party in Germany. Everyone is welcome regardless of age, size or gender expression; the atmosphere is warm, friendly and inclusive, with many attendees wearing leather, sportswear or bear‑themed outfits. The party has been running for more than two decades and continues to be the highlight of the bear calendar, drawing visitors back year after year【17057†L113-L117】.
On Sunday many weary partygoers wind down at the **Bear Brunch**, a relaxed get‑together usually hosted in a traditional Hamburg restaurant or on a moored ship. The brunch offers generous buffet spreads, hot coffee and a chance to exchange contact details and plan the next reunion before everyone heads home. For those still hungry for culture, there are also informal sightseeing tours of St Pauli and the Speicherstadt warehouse district.
**Practical information**
Tickets for Bärenpaadiie events are sold individually, allowing visitors to pick and choose which activities suit their interests. The XXL party at Markthalle tends to sell out well in advance, so booking early is advisable. Accommodation also fills up quickly; hotels in the city centre and in the gay‑friendly district of St Georg offer easy access to venues and public transport. Because January is off‑season for tourism, rates can be reasonable if booked early. Many attendees stay at mid‑range properties such as the Arcotel Onyx or Henri Hotel, which provide comfortable rooms and friendly service. Public transport in Hamburg is efficient and runs late into the night, making it easy to move between events without needing a car.
Bärenpaadiie is more than just a party weekend; it embodies the spirit of togetherness and inclusivity that characterises Hamburg’s lgbtq+Q+ scene. Organised entirely by volunteers, the event raises funds for local HIV and lgbtq+Q+ charities and emphasises respect and diversity. Visitors are encouraged to be themselves, whether that means sporting full leather gear, casual jeans or anything in between. Many attendees remark that the relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes it easy to meet new people and forge lasting friendships. By choosing venues across the city, Nordbären Hamburg encourages visitors to explore Hamburg’s cultural highlights, sample regional cuisine and support local businesses.
**Why attend?**
Whether you are a seasoned bear weekender or curious newcomer, Bärenpaadiie Hamburg 2025 offers a warm welcome and a packed programme. The combination of sauna parties, bowling tournaments, harbour tours and a mega‑party at Markthalle means there is something for everyone. The event’s timing in mid‑January provides a perfect post‑holiday getaway and a bright spot during the winter months. Thanks to the organisers’ emphasis on inclusivity, visitors of all ages, body types and identities can feel at home. For many, Bärenpaadiie is not onso an opportunity to experience Hamburg’s rich history, vibrant nightlife and welcoming queer community. To keep up‑to‑date with schedules, ticket sales and venue announcements, visit the Nordbären Hamburg official weofficial website. Plan your trip early, pack your favourite bear gear and get ready to celebrate one of Europe’s most beloved bear festivals in the heart of northern Germany.