Berlin's Watergate Club to Close After 22 Years, Citing Financial Pressures and Rising Costs
The iconic Berlin nightclub, Watergate, has announced its closure at the end of 2024 after 22 years of operation. The venue, known for its cutting-edge techno music and vibrant atmosphere, attributed the decision to the mounting financial pressures and rising costs associated with running a club in the city.
The Impact of Inflation and the Energy Crisis
In a statement to Resident Advisor, co-founder Ulrich Wombacher, explained the reasons behind the closure. He cited the “realities of inflation, the energy crisis, rising costs in general, and, not least, the high rent” as contributing factors. Wombacher emphasized the significant financial strain the club has faced, ultimately leading to the decision not to extend the lease.
The Shift Towards Larger Events
Wombacher also highlighted the growing attraction to larger events and festivals as a factor in the closure. He acknowledged that Watergate had become a venue “based on the original idea of the club as a defining place for an entire musical generation” and that the shift in the club landscape has contributed to the challenges the venue faced.
A Legacy of Music and Innovation
Watergate first opened its doors in 2002 and has played a significant role in Berlin's clubbing history. Despite its smaller capacity compared to other renowned clubs in the city, Watergate has maintained its position as a prominent venue, hosting artists including Carl Cox, Charlotte de Witte, Boo Williams, Richie Hawtin, and many more over the years.
Nurturing New Talent
The club has also been instrumental in supporting emerging talent, providing a platform for rising stars such as Anja Schneider, Dixon, and Solomun. Watergate's commitment to showcasing both established and up-and-coming artists has been crucial in solidifying its reputation as a hub for innovation and creativity in the electronic music scene.
Closing Parties and a Final Farewell
Watergate will host a series of closing parties from its birthday in October until its final closure on New Year’s Eve 2024. The closing events will feature performances by renowned artists including Charlotte de Witte, Sven Väth, Marlon Hoffstadt, DJ Minx, Richie Hawtin, and Kerri Chandler, amongst others.
A Celebration of Music and Community
The final events are expected to be a celebration of the club's rich history and its contribution to Berlin's nightlife scene. The team has expressed their desire to “step away with grace,” thanking the community for their support over the years.
The Future of Berlin’s Club Scene
The closure of Watergate highlights the challenges faced by many clubs in Berlin, particularly in light of rising costs and the evolving nature of the clubbing scene. While the club scene in Berlin remains vibrant and diverse, the closure of such a well-established institution raises questions about the future of smaller venues and the importance of supporting the city's unique cultural heritage.
The Fight to Preserve Berlin’s Nightlife
The closure of Watergate and Renate, which is owned by the same landlord, has sparked conversations about the need for greater protection for venues and the vital role they play in the city's cultural identity. The successful inscription of Berlin techno on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, a campaign driven by the Rave the Planet collective, aimed to pressure local government to support and safeguard the city's unique club scene.
A Last Dance for Watergate
As Watergate prepares to close its doors for the final time, the club's legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and shape the future of Berlin's club scene. The closing parties will be a chance for music lovers to say goodbye to an iconic venue and celebrate the incredible contributions it has made to the city's nightlife history.
