Winters in Germany are tough and long. German Burners found a way to meet friends in a sophisticated environment in an enchanted castle near Halle. It evolved to be a German Burn and follows the 10 (+2) Burning Man principles.
Who we are
We are an open community.
We learn from each other and share responsibilities and tasks.
We live the 10 (+2) Burning Man principles (and carry them out into the world).
We live a culture with which we want to be a role model for others.
We create something new instead of consuming.
We do not judge.
We test our limits and respect those of others.
We welcome new friends with open arms and curiosity.
We are aware of the responsibility for our environment and act accordingly.
We do not take ourselves too seriously.
The theme for 2025: Back to the Bear!
"Back to the Bear!" takes us on a playful journey back in time, inspired by the neon-soaked energy of the 80s and the iconic spirit of “Back to the Future.” It’s not just a nod to retro aesthetics; it’s a celebration of the vibrant creativity, bold colors, and limitless imagination that defined the era.
Over the years, Schloss Beesenstedt has become more than just a venue—it’s been our home, our playground, and our canvas for creating memories. This year, we embrace those moments with a nostalgic twist, channeling the past to create a future full of possibilities.
Let’s bring the castle to life one last time with the glow of neon, the pulse of synth beats, and the spirit of innovation that makes our community shine. Whether it’s through art, music, costumes, or experiences, “Back to the Bear” is your invitation to mix the old with the new and make this farewell a dazzling, unforgettable spectacle.
So fire up your flux capacitors, don your brightest outfits, and get ready to take a leap through time as we toast to the past, present, and future of Zum brennenden Bären! When we raise our burner cups this time, you’ll hear us say: Back to the Bear!
How to participate?
Zum brennenden Bären thrives on the creativity and contributions of its community. It’s not just an event—it’s a co-created experience where everyone has the chance to shape the magic. We’ve now opened the application phase to bring your ideas to life. Whether you’re inspired to:
Create Art or Transform Rooms
Share your vision with an art project, installation, or by transforming an entire room into an immersive experience, bar or dance floor.
Art Application, Room Application
Deadline: January 19th, 2025
Perform as Cabaret Artist
Step into the spotlight at our Saturday Cabaret or perform throughout the event with a surprise act or roving performance.
Application Form
Deadline: February 1st, 2025
Bring the music that makes the dance floors come alive. Whether you’re spinning beats or performing live, we want to hear your sounds.
Application Form
Deadline: February 1st, 2025
Host a Workshop
Share your skills and teach, entertain, or inspire with a workshop that engages the community and sparks connection.
Application Form
Deadline: February 1st, 2025
But that's not all: Co-creation also means that we all volunteer. All of us will do at least two shifts. Holding a workshop or playing a set as a DJ doesn't count as a shift. That's a gift. To get all volunteering stuff sorted we have an own department:
Volunteer-Lounge
Ever strolled around a burn having deep existential riddles like:
“was I supposed to do a shift today?”
“when is my kitchen shift again?”
“where do we meet for ranger shifts?”
“how much time should I arrive before my gate shift?”
“any idea what time is it?”
“would love to help with something now, but where oh where should i go?”
Supreme Injustice (a.k.a volunteer lounge) has the answers, with an attitude! Our centrally locationed prosecutor, judge and jury will get dat ass of yours sorted! Come with any mystery about well... anything... but mostly about shifts and you shall get your swift sentence. More info on the process soon! For any questions about shifts - volunteering@z2b.org
What to expect?
WORKSHOPS
DJs & LIVEACTS
MOVING FLOORS
CABARET & BANDS & PERFORMING ARTS
ARTS
THEME ROOMS
INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES
SALON SESSIONS
and much more ...
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is "Zum brennnenden Bären"?
Zum brennenden Bären is the regional German event inspired by Burning Man. It's a co-creation event based on the 10+2 principles.
Where and when take the event place?
The next Bär will burn from March 13–16 in the same venue as last time: a 19th-century castle near the city of Halle.
What is included in the membership price?
A gathering of like-minded people, different floors and rooms, the best food (breakfast and dinner), all drinks at an open bar, comfy beds, linens, a sauna and much more.
What is not included in the membership price?
Arts and program: nothing comes to life if you won't make it happen! Snacks: make sure you bring whatever is necessary for your personal needs. Transportation to and from the event are your responsibility!
May I bring my kids and/or pets?
The castle is not a suitable environment for kids or animals, but you can bring your favorite spirit animal onesie or costume!
Is it possible to pay a lower membership price (low income)?
If you indicated in your application that you need a Low Income Membership and win the lottery, you will receive an email with further instructions.
How do I get to the venue?
The best way is to take our shuttle bus. We inform here and by email about the bus connections we will offer. Arriving by public transport or by car is also possible. Stay tuned for more details.
What should I bring?
Beside snacks (see above) bring your favorite outfit(s), gifts, a towel or two (we have a sauna) and your personal belongings. More infos will follow in our survival guide, which we publish later here.
Information to all lucky MembersHippies
Please stay tuned for more information about transport with our Shuttle Busses.
Contact us
In case of any further questions please write us in the Facebook group or via email.
Photo Credits: Russarts (Header; Workshops), Sascha Baridara (DJ & Liveacts; Cabaret; Art Grants; Interactive Experiences; Salon), Karlo Walz (Dancefloor; Art)