Wir im Kiez — Neighborhood and Community Festival Weitlingkiez

A Neighborhood Festival for a Tolerant District

„Wir im Kiez" is more than a classic summer festival: The community festival on Münsterlandplatz in Weitlingkiez explicitly positions itself as a statement for „a tolerant and diverse neighborhood" and thus follows in the tradition of the Day of Open Society, celebrated nationwide on the third Saturday in June. Lichtenberg is a district with a distinct social mix — from historic apartment buildings and GDR-era housing blocks to new construction projects — and the festival reflects this diversity in its program.

Over 30 Associations, Initiatives, and Artists

The heart of the festival are over 30 stalls where local associations, projects, and initiatives from Weitlingkiez and Lichtenberg present themselves. From neighborhood shops and church communities to citizens' initiatives for more green spaces — everyone gets a table, an hour of stage time, and the opportunity to engage with residents. In addition, there are hands-on activities such as face painting, can tossing, and small creative workshops for the youngest.

Bicycle Repair and Flea Market

A special feature is the bicycle repair station operated by the association Garage 10 e.V. Here, residents can have their bikes checked for free — a low-threshold opportunity to get their own bicycle in shape. Simultaneously, a flea market runs with stall registration through the neighborhood coordination. Those who want to declutter and get to know the neighborhood at the same time will find themselves here.

Stage Program and Food

On the main stage, performances by local bands, dance groups, choirs, and school groups alternate. No headliner, but many mini-slots, deliberately keeping the program accessible. Food stalls offer sausages, cakes, coffee, and drinks at moderate prices, often run by associations that finance their own work with the proceeds. Admission is free.

The Weitlingkiez and Lichtenberg Mitte

The Weitlingkiez is located directly around the S-Bahn station Lichtenberg and is considered one of the denser residential neighborhoods in the district. With Weitlingstraße as its central axis and Münsterlandplatz as the neighborhood square, it is a classic Berlin residential area with an active neighborhood scene. The organizer, Stadtteilkoordination Lichtenberg Mitte, has been coordinating the festival for over 15 years in cooperation with the housing company HOWOGE and the Lichtenberg district office. The patronage is traditionally held by the district mayor.