​Watergate celebrates 20 years with string of parties this October

Berlin’s most cherished Spree-side haunt Watergate is celebrating its 20th birthday this coming October with a string of special events.

Bringing in both new and old names, Watergate celebrates 20 years with acts including Maceo Plex, Solomun, Richie Hawtin, and more in the months leading up to October.

Having already paid their tributes to the iconic club ahead of October’s big celebrations, Charlotte de Witte and Laurent Garnier took to the stage earlier in August to perform at the Spree-side club.

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Watergate has also teamed up with festivals all over Europe including EXIT, ADE, and Tomorrowland to put on a slew of shows from club residents under the banner ‘Watergate: 20 Years’.

"From the beginning, we felt the magic that this place right by the river unfolds – especially in the morning hours,” says Watergate’s co-founder, Ulrich Wombacher, recalling the club’s earliest days.

"Our club cannot be reproduced digitally. It is a place that brings people together. A place of warmth and closeness. A kind of cocoon, protected by the night and early mornings. It doesn't work virtually.”

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Watergate first opened in 2002 in an old office building and served as a home for a mixture of sonics including reggae, drum ’n’ bass, and hip-hop in its fledgling days. Today, Watergate is recognised for its considerable contribution to the house and techno scene.

Watergate will team up with fashion brand Irie Daily this October to release a series of club-styled clothing, including tracksuits, hoodies, and t-shirts.

In November, Watergate will also celebrate 20 years with a compilation released on limited edition triple gatefold vinyl. Featuring 20 exclusive tracks, the compilation is set to feature artists including Solomun, JAMIIE, and Adana Twins.

Find out more about Watergate's 20th-anniversary celebrations here.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Editorial Assistant, follow her on Twitter