SESH

Berlin is a renowned nightclub located in Chicago, Illinois, United States, most famously situated at 954 W. Belmont Avenue in the heart of the city’s Lakeview neighborhood. Established in 1983 by owner Joann Garcia, Berlin was conceived as an inclusive space inspired by the vibrant nightlife of Berlin, Germany, and quickly rose to prominence as a haven for Chicago's LGBTQ+ community, alternative cultures, and music lovers of all kinds.

Over the decades, Berlin has cultivated a reputation for openness, diversity, and cutting-edge entertainment, offering a wildly eclectic mix of dance nights, themed parties, and live performances that have made it an enduring fixture in the city’s nightlife scene. Berlin’s cultural significance extends beyond its role as a nightclub: it has been a cradle for artistic expression, offering early platforms to avant-garde performers, drag artists, and DJs who push the boundaries of creativity. The venue is often credited with fostering a sense of community and supporting marginalized voices long before such values became mainstream.

While the venue has undergone numerous renovations to update its sound systems, lighting, and decor, the club has remained at its Belmont Avenue location since its opening, preserving much of its original layout and iconic entrance, even as the surrounding neighborhood has evolved. Throughout its history, Berlin has played host to a wide array of notable artists and performers from both the international stage and Chicago’s local scene. Among the international acts, legends like Lady Gaga, Crystal Castles, and Erasure’s Andy Bell have graced the decks or performed cameo sets, while drag superstars such as Sharon Needles and Trixie Mattel have appeared for packed events.

Celebrated local DJs like Greg Haus and Larissa have been recurring talents, and Chicago house music pioneers, including Frankie Knuckles and Derrick Carter, have helped cement Berlin’s status as a hub for dance music. Indie-pop acts like Scissor Sisters and Hercules & Love Affair have performed intimate gigs, while countless emerging artists, performance troupes, and LGBTQ+ icons have found their stage at Berlin, ensuring its legacy as one of America’s most storied and influential nightclubs.