Welcome to

[un] familiar festival

What began as a lavish birthday party seven years ago has become tradition: A mystical castle hidden from the everyday invites you to explore music, rituals and the “unknown” with playful curiosity. Please remember that this is not just a festival, but a gathering that thrives off participation. Buying a ticket invites you to become a co-creator.

31.10 – 02.11.2025

Choose your ticket

First time here?

[un]familiar feels like..

A weekend full of lavish celebration and deep connection. The heart of [un]familiar beats on two main dance floors — but it’s so much more than a party. The entire castle becomes a living stage, shaped by the five elements earth, fire, air, water and magic. Each space invites you to play, reflect, and awaken your creative spirit in a different way.

It’s easy to meet new people. With connection games, intimate workshops, and shared moments, we do our best to make everyone feel at home—and make space for new friendships to spark. 

Days are filled with rituals, pop-up happenings, shared meals, and unexpected conversations. Nights bring rhythm, energy, and surprise as the castle transforms into a world of sound and light. Expect soulful performances, plant-based feasts, and moments of magic you didn’t plan for. This isn’t a luxury escape—it’s a co-created utopia. Soft, playful, soulful, a little surreal—and entirely shaped by us all.

  • Three days & two nights of festival magic
  • Music, workshops & deep encounters from Friday midday to Sunday afternoon
  • Accommodation in or around the castle – choose your favourite room below
  • Delicious vegetarian food from brunch to dinner
  • Unlimited drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)

[un]familiar is not for profit. Every cent goes directly into the experience we create together.

is pretty comfortable! Everyone gets to sleep in a cozy bed. You can choose between different room categories inside the castle or a short walk away.

  • A limited number of private rooms are available.
  • Most rooms are shared. If you booked a family or community room, you’ll receive a form shortly before the festival to let us know who your preferred roomies are (please note that we do our best but can’t always fulfil all wishes).
  • Bathrooms are mostly shared.
  • Everyone sleeps in a proper bed with bedding provided (just bring a towel).
  • Camping is not allowed. 

While the castle is cozy and atmospheric, it’s not a luxury hotel – we ask everyone to respect the space and help keep it clean.

is not that far from Berlin. The festival is in a 19th-century castle near the city of Halle – a very spectacular and unique scenery reachable from Berlin in around 2 hours.

Address: SchloĂźstrasse 31, 06198 Beesenstedt (Google Maps).

You can get there by:

  • Shuttle Bus organised by us from Berlin Alexanderplatz (Friday morning → Sunday afternoon return) → book here
  • Car (please note that parking at the castle is very limited)
  • Train to Halle (Saale) followed by a taxi (approx. 50€ one way)

The festival begins Friday at lunchtime and ends Sunday early afternoon. To fully immerse yourself in the experience, we encourage everyone to be there from start to finish.

maybe someone else will take it! Please buy your ticket with intention – holding one “just in case” might mean someone else misses the chance to be part of it. A peer-to-peer ticket exchange will be available later this summer if needed. Each ticket is personalized and we will be checking that the name on your ID matches the name on your ticket.

[un]familiar is built on co-creation.

  • You can purchase a discounted volunteer ticket and help bring the festival to life. 
  • If you have a special idea, performance, or workshop you’d love to share, reach out to us at info@unfamiliar.de

is strict! We expect everyone to respect personal space and always seek clear, enthusiastic consent – whether for a hug, a dance, or any kind of interaction. This is a community of care. We uplift, support, and look out for each other. Any form of harassment, violence, or disrespect will not be tolerated.

is an open heart and curious mind first and foremost. Each edition of [un]familiar has a theme & dress code, and we ask guests to dress accordingly to help create a truly immersive experience.

Essentials to bring:

  • Towels (bedding is provided)
  • Anything else you need for a weekend away
  • Slippers and anything to go for a sauna session

is only possible if they were invited by us. But don’t worry, you’ll make plenty of friends easily and probably already know some guests.

If you booked a family or community room, you’ll receive a form shortly before the festival to let us know who your preferred roomies are. Make sure you and your friends all booked the same room category. Please note that we do our best to match you with your friends but can’t always fulfill all wishes.

Private rooms can only be booked with two invite codes and are therefore never shared with strangers.

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