Tomorrow, Wednesday October 3, is the 17th anniversary of German reunification (Tag der Einheit). It's a public holiday so most shops will be closed, although many flea markets will be open. (For alternative shopping possibilities see our page "Out-of-hours shopping").

In Berlin the main event to celebrate German reunification is the festival held today (October 2) and tomorrow in the eastern part Tiergarten close to the Brandenburg Gate along the Straße des 17. Juni. There'll be the usual "attractions", mainly stands selling Bratwurst and the inevitable Chinapfanne. Highlights will be the free concerts, which take place on the Platz des 18. März directly in front of the Brandenburg Gate. On Wednesday some of the more famous German groups will be performing, including Juli, Silbermond and at around 9pm the Fantastische Vier.

S-Bahn station Unter den Linden is the closest station, but be warned it may be closed to prevent overcrowding, particularly as the eastern side of Pariser Platz where the entrances are is largely blocked by construction work for the U55. It's probably better to walk up from Potsdamer Platz. Berlin-Hauptbahnhof and Friedrichstraße are also within walking distance.

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