Sad news comes today all the way from Germany, as Berlin’s legendary nightclub Watergate will reportedly close its doors at the end of 2024, the team announced today. After two decades of operation, the organizers of the Falckensteinstrasse venue have made the difficult decision to shut down, following a series of financial struggles.
“Unfortunately, the realities of inflation, the energy crisis, rising costs in general, and, not least, the high rent for this beautiful location in the heart of the city at Oberbaumbrücke on the Spree, caught up with us“, said cofounder Ulrich Wombacher in conversation with media Resident Advisor. “We’re facing enormous financial pressure, which ultimately led us to the decision not to extend the club’s lease“.
Wombacher also cited the growing popularity of larger events and festivals as a contributing factor to the closure. He emphasized that Watergate was founded on the idea of a club as a defining place for a musical generation. With the changing landscape of nightlife, the organizers felt it was time to step down gracefully rather than risk financial decline.
Watergate will bid farewell with a special closing program from October until its final day, featuring performances by renowned DJs such as Charlotte de Witte, Sven Väth, Richie Hawtin, and more. Renowned parties like Multisex, Mala Junta, Club Heartbroken, and New Kids on Acid will also be part of the final celebrations.
Founded in 2002, Watergate is considered one of Berlin’s most iconic nightlife institutions. While the physical space will close, the Watergate Records label and the wider brand will continue to exist. This announcement follows recent news that nearby club Renate may also shut down when its lease ends in 2025, as both venues are operated by the same landlord.
[H/T] Resident Advisor