ICC Berlin commences a 49-hour duration event
The International Congress Center (ICC), affectionately known as the "spaceship" due to its unique design, is set to reopen its doors to the public after an eleven-year closure. The renowned Berlin landmark will be accessible for two days on September 13 and 14, 2025, as part of the "49h ICC" mega-event.
This limited-time reopening provides a rare opportunity for visitors to explore the ICC in its original state, with access to previously inaccessible rooms and architectural highlights. The event will feature tours, workshops, design conferences, and various activities celebrating the ICC's historical and architectural significance.
Prior to its reopening, the ICC served as a refugee shelter and vaccination center. Now, it is set to showcase its original design and urban history, with Senator for Economics Franziska Giffey (47, SPD) expressing her delight at the reopening.
The "49h ICC" event marks a unique occasion rather than a permanent return to the ICC's original function as a congress center. No explicit details have been provided about the ICC resuming regular congress or event operations permanently after the "49h ICC" event.
Messe Berlin, which manages many event venues in the city, is focusing on sustainability improvements and new event concepts across their exhibition grounds. Berlin is also developing new event hubs related to gaming and tech, such as the House of Games Berlin opening in 2026, indicating the city's focus on innovative event spaces beyond the ICC.
In preparation for the "49h ICC", an extensive paid program is being offered, including photo and architecture tours, witness talks, and exhibitions. Free time slot tickets are also available for visiting the abandoned ICC and its rooftop terrace.
Moreover, the "Form/Future" conference will take place before the "49h ICC" event, on September 11 and 12. The conference aims to highlight Berlin as a UNESCO City of Design, with experts from Germany and abroad discussing how design can shape transformation processes.
The event will also feature a variety of entertainment, such as yoga sessions, lightsaber workshops, and shows by Saber Academy Berlin and FlensSabers.
As the ICC reopens for this special occasion, it marks a significant step towards making a piece of Berlin's architectural and urban history accessible to the public once more. For those interested, tickets for visiting the ICC during the "49h ICC" event can be booked online.
After the rustic ambiance of refugee shelters and the sterile environment of vaccination centers, the ICC transforms back to its original allure as a home-and-garden for lifestyle and design enthusiasts during the "49h ICC" event. Visitors can explore the unique home-and-garden-inspired design elements, learning about the architectural history and significance of the ICC through tours, workshops, conferences, and various activities.
