Berlin, April 25 – Görlitzer Park will remain open throughout the night around May 1, a temporary lift of its recently introduced night closure. Visitors will be permitted to enter the park at any time between 10 p.m. on April 30 and 6 a.m. on May 2. This decision was announced through a general ruling issued by the Senate Department for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection, and the Environment.
Temporary Exception to Park Closure
The usual night closure, which has been in effect since March 1, typically restricts access to Görlitzer Park between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. However, the administration has justified this temporary exception by citing the numerous parties and demonstrations traditionally held around May 1. These events are known to attract thousands of people to the Görlitzer Park area and often extend late into the night, making a closure impractical and potentially disruptive.
Raves Banned in Treptower Park
In contrast to Görlitzer Park, raves will not be permitted in Treptower Park during the May 1 period. A general order issued by the police prohibits such events from 6 a.m. on May 1 through 6 a.m. on May 2. This ban encompasses the area between the Spree River, including the Insel der Jugend, and Bulgarische Straße, Am Treptower Park, and along the S-Bahn line. Puschkinallee is explicitly exempt from this prohibition. The police have stated that this measure is necessary for the protection of green spaces, recreational areas, and the historic garden within Treptower Park.
Context of May 1 Celebrations in Berlin
May 1, also known as Labour Day, is traditionally a day of public gatherings, demonstrations, and celebrations in Berlin. Both Görlitzer Park and Treptower Park are popular venues for these events, drawing significant crowds. The authorities’ differing approaches to these two parks reflect a balance between facilitating public gatherings and ensuring public safety and environmental protection.
Impact on Local Residents and Visitors
The decision regarding Görlitzer Park will likely be welcomed by those planning to participate in the May 1 festivities, allowing for uninterrupted celebrations. Conversely, the ban on raves in Treptower Park aims to mitigate potential disturbances and damage to the natural and historical landscape, aligning with concerns for local residents and the preservation of public spaces.
This temporary adjustment to park access rules underscores the city’s efforts to manage large-scale public events while addressing various community and environmental considerations.
Source: https://www.berlin.de/en/news/10343674-5559700-goerlitzer-park-will-remain-open-at-nigh.en.html
