Fan Fest Berlin at World Cup 2006

June 8th, 2006 | by: Nick O'Neill | View Comments

Fan Fest Berlin was a blast. The strip that runs from the Brandenburg Gate was full of people, old and young, all out for a good time. Plenty of street side bars and snack places selling bratwurst and other German favorites. In front of the Brandenburg Gate a stage was set up and the acts included Brasilian samba band Olodum, who were perfect for the street festival audience. The atmosphere in front of the Brandenburg Gate was of excitement and anticipation. Up to this point I have not seen many Germans wearing their nation’s colors, but at Fan Fest they started to come out.

One great thing here in Berlin is the civilized nature of life. People are cool and there is not a ‘drunken soccer fan’ mentality, as there is in other countries. Of course people here would like to see Germany win, but they also appreciate good football and are open enough to give credit where it’s due.

I saw a father leading his 6 year old son through the crowd. The kid was wearing a Germany shirt, with a Brasil transfer on his cheek. There were many groups of fans who were sporting the colors of different countries. My Japan shirt kicked off a love-fest with a Japanese news crew filming me hugging 3 of their staff, and signing a giant team shirt. Nippon love continued when a Japanese tourist stopped me and asked for a photo. I told him Japan were my favorite team and Nakata was a hero. He asked if I knew why Japan wear blue. The reason, he said, was Japan’s team color is ‘Samurai blue’.

Beer at the Fan Fest was about 3.50 Euro a glass. Berliner pilsner being the prominent brand. I’d say steer clear of the bar next to the TV cameras at the Brandenburg stage, it’s 5 Euro a glass!

Many nationalities are working this World Cup, including ladies from Brasil, working at a Berliner stand, and Kathy from the US. It’s all good fun and even if you are not a football fan, people are here for a good time. The Fan Mile is free to get into and will be a great place to hang out, watch games and meet people once the competition begins.

The Fan Fest wrapped up with fireworks later in the evening. A great way to get in the mood for World Cup Germany 2006.