Several brands launch legal action against ‘dancing ban’ in Berlin

On December 8th, a newly imposed ban in Berlin saw a complete stop to all dancing indoors in the city’s venues. 

As a result, a group of 11 clubs, organisers, and promoters have submitted a legal appeal. According to Berlin-based news platform RBB24, OST, KitKat Club, Matrix, Soda Club, Der Weiße Hase, Insomnia, DJ Paul Van Dyk and renowned queer event Revolver Party are all amongst those taking action against the ban.

The ban came into place following spiralling case numbers as the recently discovered Omicron variant continues to cause problems across Europe and beyond. 

Assisting all parties taking legal action – lawyer Niko Härting posted a statement on his website last Thursday after submitting the legal appeal to Berlin’s administrative court. 

The appeal asks for the ban to be lifted before New Year’s Eve, with the statement on Harting’s website saying: “The ‘dance ban’ hits clubs and organisers particularly hard on New Year’s Eve. Organisers have invested heavily in the preparation of New Years Eve parties and sold thousands of tickets,”

It continues to say: “There is a risk of failures in the millions. The Berlin club scene, which was already badly shaken by Corona, fears about its future.”

Härting also believes that by driving people out of the more “hygienic clubs” with air ventilation and sanitising stations, Berlin’s residents will opt for more unsafe “private” parties on New Year’s Eve without “protection or authorities.”