Our Christmas Party Music Extravaganza event last week was a culmination of all the best parts of this year in the life of Give Something Back to Berlin.

2015 was a challenging year for the world, for Germany and for Berlin, but these challenges allowed our community to show it’s true colours, and last Thursday night was a celebration of that spirit.

Our refugee and friends’ band Lomnava brought the house down with their catchy beats and songs of solidarity while our cosy art workshop carried on in one corner.

Later, New York musician Ghsts n Guitars jammed with some Syrian newcomers, ending with a huge dance party when our Syrian friends heard songs from home. Jamming in between the acts was an internationally-recognised pianist – a new member of our community from Syria who we hope to introduce here on the blog  soon.

Lovely volunteers sold Glühwein and beer from our friends at Stone Brewing Berlin to raise money for our work, and we showed off our new tote bags which are still for sale online.

Thanks to everyone who came to party with us or volunteered to make the night happen. It was a truly magical way to end 2015!

The photos above are our photographer Kalle Kuikkaniemi – more here.