Berlin ends public funding for traditional New Year's Eve party

Berlin's government will no longer provide public funding for the city's traditional New Year's Eve party at the landmark Brandenburg Gate, a high-profile event that draws tens of thousands of people each year, reported dpa.

"In my opinion, it's not the job of taxpayers to finance such events," Mayor Kai Wegner told dpa. "Especially not in times of tight budgets." He said organizers were informed two years ago that 2024 would be the last year of public support.

The party has been held for decades, featuring live performances and a midnight fireworks display in front of Berlin's most famous landmark to ring in the new year.

In early July, organizers warned that funding for the 2025 event remained uncertain.

The mayor said alternative concepts were under discussion, including a fireworks display at the Brandenburg Gate or a revised event with different financing.

The exact amount of financial support provided by the state of Berlin for the New Year's Eve show is unclear. According to the organizer, the funding ranged between €500,000 and €1 million, partly through state-owned companies renting advertising space.

The department for economic affairs in the city government did not disclose a total amount but said it contributed €300,000 last year.