FOLSOM Europe 2026 – Berlin’s Gay Leather & Fetish Festival

From September 10 to 13, 2026, Berlin’s Schöneberg district hosts FOLSOM Europe, the continent’s largest celebration of leather, fetish, and kink. Now a global event drawing tens of thousands of visitors, the festival centres on the Saturday street fair, where Fuggerstraße and Welserstraße are filled with vendor stalls, DJs, stages, and kinksters dressed in their best gear.

Parties That Define the Weekend

While the street fair is the most visible highlight, FOLSOM Europe thrives in Berlin’s legendary nightlife. The weekend lineup includes the iconic PiG Party, BearDance Folsom Edition, Testosterone, and Recon Berlin as the official closing event. Each has its own flavour, from leather and rubber to bear and pup communities, with strict dress codes at many venues to keep the focus on fetish authenticity.

More Than a Fair

Beyond the nightlife, the program includes boat tours, community workshops, and playful events like the Puppy Walk and Puppy Games. FOLSOM Europe is organised by a non-profit association, with proceeds supporting local LGBTQ+ charities.

Planning Your Trip

Hotels in Schöneberg place visitors at the heart of the festival, steps from the street fair and nightlife. Demand is high, so early booking is strongly advised, as are advance party tickets. For newcomers, the fair offers an accessible introduction to Berlin’s fetish scene, while seasoned attendees dive straight into the clubs and late-night parties.

Book Your Hotel

For accommodation, check our list of top hotels in Berlin for gay travelers.