A Festive Dive into Berlin’s Unique New Year Celebration with Edith

Imagine ringing in the new year not with typical fireworks or champagne, but with a lively, humorous, and thoroughly Berlin-style spectacle. The Ades Zabel Company’s “Hello 2026 into the new year with Edith” offers just that—a spirited 3-hour show at the BKA Theater in the heart of Kreuzberg, where local characters, eclectic music, and comedy combine to make an unforgettable start to the year. While I haven’t experienced it myself, this event seems to promise a bright, laughter-filled celebration that captures the city’s quirky charm.
One of the standout features I love is the playfully chaotic vibe Edith brings, with her “highly explosive mishmash” of favorite hits, show excerpts, and improvisations. It’s clear that the atmosphere is intimate and lively, filled with familiar faces like Biggy and Jutta Hartmann, adding a sense of community and authenticity. Plus, the inclusion of catering means you won’t just watch the fun from afar—you’ll get to indulge in some local treats as part of the festivities.
That said, if you’re looking for a polished, mainstream New Year’s event, this might feel a little rough around the edges. The fast-paced, improvisational nature means it’s best suited for those who appreciate humor, spontaneity, and a taste of Berlin’s beloved eccentricity. It’s not overly structured, which could be a plus or minus depending on your preference for a more predictable night.
This experience offers a vibrant mix of comedy, music, and local camaraderie—perfect for travelers eager to enjoy Berlin’s alternative holiday spirit rather than the usual tourist-heavy celebrations.
Key points / Takeaways

- Authentic Berlin Vibe: Celebrates the city’s quirky, humorous spirit with local characters and improvisation.
- Inclusive and Accessible: Wheelchair accessible and suitable for those who enjoy lively, informal events.
- Cultural Mix: Offers a fast-paced blend of music, comedy, and show excerpts, giving a taste of Berlin’s arts scene.
- Community Feel: The presence of familiar local faces and the informal setting makes you feel like part of a quirky, extended family.
- Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Duration and Timing: Three hours long, with specific start times; check availability to plan your evening.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Berlin.
Entering the World of Edith and Her Festivities

The start takes place at the BKA Theater’s entrance on Mehringdamm 34, right next to Curry 36—an iconic Berlin snack spot. Once inside, you’ll ascend to the 5th floor, either by elevator or staircase, where the lively atmosphere begins. The theater’s intimate setting means you’ll be close enough to feel part of the action, rather than a distant observer.
Edith Schröder, the central figure, is described as a “fun-loving Hartz VIII citizen’s income recipient de luxe,” which suggests she’s a relatable, down-to-earth character who loves to entertain. Her energetic celebration of 2025 “checked off” with hope sets a positive tone, and her interactions with her friends Biggy and Jutta add layers of humor that are distinctly local.
The show is a whirlwind of favorite numbers, show excerpts, ecstatic dance, and improvisation. Expect a fast-paced, lively sequence of entertainment that’s more party than polished performance. The reviews mention Edith’s “highly explosive mishmash,” making it clear that spontaneity is part of the charm. If you’re prepared for a bit of chaos—think on-the-spot jokes, musical surprises, and humorous improvisations—this will be a fun, memorable night.
What to Expect During the Show

The core of the event is a three-hour extravaganza blending music, comedy, and audience interaction. You’ll likely see Edith and her friends celebrating as if every day were New Year’s Eve, complete with show excerpts and dance numbers that get everyone involved. The casual, fast-paced nature means there’s little downtime—be ready to laugh, clap, and maybe even sing along.
While the specific program varies, the focus is on creating a festive atmosphere that feels spontaneous and inclusive. The show’s description suggests it’s suitable for those who enjoy humor with a bit of absurdity—think of it as a playful roast of Berlin’s local characters, with plenty of music and improvisation to keep things lively.
The Venue and Logistics
The BKA Theater is known for its alternative performances, making it a fitting location for this kind of celebration. The theater’s accessibility is a plus, ensuring that more visitors can join in the fun. Starting times vary, so it’s wise to check the schedule and book in advance, especially during busy holiday periods.
The activity includes a full three hours of entertainment, which offers good value considering the lively atmosphere and the inclusion of catering. The ticket reservation process is flexible—reserve now, pay later, and cancel with 24 hours’ notice—perfect for travelers with unpredictable plans.
Price and Value
While the exact ticket cost isn’t specified, the ticket includes a comprehensive program of music, show excerpts, improvisations, and catering. Considering the duration and the local flavor, it likely provides good value for those seeking an authentic, offbeat Berlin experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer entertainment with humor, spontaneity, and a touch of community spirit rather than glossy commercial productions.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This celebration appeals strongly to those who enjoy humor, unexpected surprises, and local culture. It’s ideal for travelers looking for an informal, lively start to the new year—especially if they’re interested in experiencing a more authentic side of Berlin’s arts and humor scene. It might not be perfect for travelers seeking a formal or polished event, but for those craving a memorable, laughter-filled night with a distinctly Berlin twist, Edith’s party hits the mark.
The Sum Up
In essence, “Hello 2026 into the new year with Edith” at the BKA Theater offers a lively, chaotic, and genuinely Berlin-style way to ring in the new year. The combination of humor, music, and local characters creates an atmosphere that’s both fun and authentic. If you’re open to an event that’s a bit unpredictable and enjoy the idea of celebrating with the city’s colorful, humorous side, this experience is worth considering.
The ticket price, which covers three hours of entertainment and catering, appears to deliver good value—especially for those eager to connect with Berlin’s unique spirit. It’s an excellent pick for travelers who like their celebrations spontaneous, humorous, and a little bit unconventional.
However, if you prefer a more polished or traditional New Year’s bash, this might not be the best fit. But for a packed evening full of laughs, local characters, and a taste of Berlin’s eccentric charm, Edith’s party is hard to beat.
FAQs
Is this experience suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring more guests can enjoy the celebration comfortably.
Can I cancel my reservation? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
What time does the show start? The starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking to choose a time that fits your schedule.
How long is the event? The show lasts approximately 3 hours, offering plenty of entertainment to kick off the new year.
Is there a dress code? The event is informal and lively; dress comfortably for an evening that’s more about fun than formality.
Are there any food or drinks included? Yes, the ticket includes catering, so you can enjoy some local treats during the festivities.
What type of entertainment can I expect? A fast-paced mix of favorite numbers, show excerpts, dance, improvisations, and humorous interactions with Edith and her friends.
Is this a family-friendly event? While the event is informal and humorous, it’s best for adults comfortable with spontaneous, lively entertainment.
What if I want to reserve with flexibility? You can book now and pay later, which is perfect if your plans might shift.
Where exactly is the venue? The BKA Theater is located at Mehringdamm 34, right next to Curry 36, a well-known Berlin snack spot.
This lively celebration offers a fantastic way to experience Berlin’s humor and community spirit at the start of the year. Whether you’re in town for a short visit or want to dive into local traditions, Edith’s New Year’s bash promises a memorable, laughter-filled night.
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