If you’re not already practising social distancing, then we have some bad news for you today. Following a slew of cancellations of big events (Coachella, SXSW, E3…) and the news that the World Health Organisation has officially declared COVID-19 a worldwide pandemic, shit has got even more real. Berghain is closing. Well, for a while at least.
The iconic Berlin nightclub broke the news on their website today, noting that due to the current health crisis their doors would remain closed at least until 20 April. It comes as Angela Merkel warns that up to 70% of Germans could become infected by the virus.
“On occasion of the current health situation and in the best health interest of our staff, artists and guests, all previously announced self-produced club events in Berghain, Panorama Bar and Säule are being discontinued as a precaution until April 20 2020,” a statement in German and English on the club’s website read.
In Berlin, gatherings of more than 1,000 people are banned as of yesterday. And as the institution’s capacity stands at 1,500, it’s perhaps expected that it would need to temporarily shutdown to halt the spread of the pandemic. It remains to be seen whether other superclubs will follow Berghain’s lead.
Bad news if you never were never cool enough to get in. You might just have missed your chance.