SESH

Zola East Side is a distinguished nightclub located in Berlin, Germany, renowned for its immersive electronic music experience and its contribution to the city’s vibrant nightlife culture. The venue emerged as an ambitious project by the creators behind the beloved Zola pizza restaurants, aiming to blend the city’s passion for electronic music with the convivial spirit of shared spaces. Housed in a converted riverside structure in Friedrichshain, Zola East Side first opened its doors to the public in the early 2020s and quickly gained a reputation for its forward-thinking programming and inclusive atmosphere.

The club stands out architecturally with its utilitarian, industrial design, which pays homage to the area’s history while providing a contemporary space optimized for sound and community gatherings. Throughout its existence, Zola East Side has demonstrated adaptability, occasionally reconfiguring its interior layout to accommodate larger events, art exhibitions, and pop-up culinary projects. The club is notable not just as a party destination, but as a hub where Berlin’s creative communities coalesce, hosting everything from record label showcases to queer collectives’ happenings.

Over time, Zola East Side has cemented itself as a key player in Berlin’s club scene, praised for its welcoming door policy, high-quality acoustics, and a dedication to nurturing both established and emerging talent. While its core location has remained stable, the venue continually evolves its offerings and physical space to match the shifting currents of the city’s culture, thus maintaining relevance and a devoted following. Notable artists who have performed at Zola East Side include international DJs such as HAAi, DJ Seinfeld, and Jennifer Cardini, as well as prominent local Berlin figures like Paramida, rRoxymore, and Cinthie.

The club has also welcomed experimental acts and collectives including Mobilegirl, Teilzeitromantik, and crew showcases from the OYE Records and Warning crews, further reinforcing its status as a haven for cutting-edge sounds and boundary-pushing nightlife experiences.