Langer Tag der StadtNatur

A City Discovers Its Own Biodiversity

Berlin is considered one of the most species-rich major cities in Europe. Over 20,000 animal and plant species live here between S-Bahn tracks, cemeteries, fallow land, and forests. The aim of the Langer Tag der StadtNatur is precisely to raise awareness among Berliners about this hidden biodiversity. Since 2007, the Stiftung Naturschutz Berlin has organized this unique format on the Pentecost weekend: 28 hours of nature programming, from Saturday afternoon to Sunday evening.

500 Events, 150 Locations

The program spans all Berlin districts: In the Tiergarten, it's about wild boars; at Wannsee, about water bats; in Spandau, about the Spektesee lake; in Neukölln, about urban nature islands in old cemeteries. In addition, normally closed locations – waterworks, sewage treatment plants, scientific sites, military properties – open their doors exclusively on this weekend. There is a dedicated family track with child-friendly tours, a night track with bat and nightingale programs, guided bike tours, canoe trips, lectures – the format is deliberately accessible and aimed at all age groups.

The Stiftung Naturschutz Berlin

Behind the format is the Stiftung Naturschutz Berlin, a state foundation founded in 1981. It is the most important private player in Berlin's nature conservation and operates, among other things, the Marzahn Nature Conservation Station, the foundation's area at Heinersdorfer Heideland, and a dense network of educational programs. The Langer Tag is its most high-profile format.

A Map Full of Surprises

Experienced participants plan their weekend like a festival: Choose three tours, have a picnic in between, and attend a night event in the evening. Some Berliners combine the program with the Pentecost weekend and specifically book accommodation in a district they would otherwise never visit. Anyone who has participated in the Langer Tag once sees Berlin with different eyes afterward.