“Sex-Positive” in Berlin: A journey through the dazzling world of sexual self-determination

When you talk about sex-positive parties , you usually have the Berlin scene in mind. In fact, this movement has its origins here, even though such scenes and communities have now emerged in many European cities, such as Vienna.

I only recently became aware of this unbroken trend when I read ZEITmagazin journalist Mohamed Amjahid

Amjahid's description of sex-positive events revealed a common misunderstanding about popular parties such as GEGEN , Pornceptual , Cocktail d'Amore , Buttons and Herrensauna , as well as clubs with dark rooms such as Berghain or the Leipziger Institut für Zukunft .

In most cases, the parties held at these venues are not, strictly speaking, full-blown “sex parties . Instead, they are sex-positive events , where sex is allowed but is not the focus of the event.

In other words, at sex-positive parties, people go there primarily to party and not necessarily to specifically engage in a specific sex act.

Partygoers are cordially invited to live out their sexuality, whatever it may be, in these specially designed rooms. But there is absolutely no pressure intended.

By the way, the “positive” in the term “sex-positive” does not refer to “HIV-positive , as some who don’t know the theory behind it might think.

Welcome to a journey through the dazzling world of breaking taboos in Berlin. In this article we delve into the “sex-positive” movement , which helps to reduce prejudice and shame while at the same time offering a safe space for sexual self-determination and erotic expression.

Berlin has already been an incubator for sexual revolution

The majority of our contemporaries are not aware that the first erotic shop in the world was opened in Germany in 1962. This was done by Beate Uhse , a former military pilot, whose company of the same name still exists today and now supplies the whole of Europe with erotic toys and everything else needed for lovemaking.

After the birth control pill and the miniskirt were introduced, the erotic trade really began to boom .

The lively and thriving fetish and BDSM community in Germany, especially in Berlin, also enjoys particular vitality.

In 2001, sexual services and sex work were fully legalized and standardized across the country. Since the beginning of the new millennium, sex workers officially had the opportunity to register with the relevant authorities in the same way as other self-employed entrepreneurs and to offer their services publicly - for example through Erobella advertisements .

The legalization of prostitution has led to it now being officially recognized as a normal industry. This represents a great relief, economic security and late recognition for many people in this area.

Fortunately, these days - at least in many metropolitan areas - it has become almost normal to work as an escort, call girl, whore or dominatrix. Although there are still some problems with society's acceptance of sex work, we have come further than ever before.

Introduction to the world of the sex-positive movement

The world of the sex-positive movement is about more than just sexual freedom and openness .

It's about breaking down prejudices, overcoming shame and creating an inclusive society in which every person can express their sexual self without being discriminated against or judged.

The sex-positive movement is a place of exchange , empowerment and growth . Here people can explore their sexuality and get to know themselves better. They can learn to set their boundaries and respond to the needs of others.

The sex-positive movement offers space for creativity and artistic expression as well as for political activities and social change .

There is a vibrant sex-positive scene in Berlin with a variety of events, clubs and organizations that are open to everyone, regardless of gender, sexuality or origin.

Regardless of whether you are new to the world of the sex-positive movement or have already gained experience - here everyone is free to find their place and their community.

Kathi from the Poly Motion Party team this way via email to THUMP (now part of VICE

In this context, it might be helpful to move away from an understanding of the term 'sex' as referring only to sexual acts. Instead, it's more about the sexual self and the determination to define yourself by it. The term “sex positive” comes mainly from the feminist fight for equality in English-speaking countries. It primarily refers to the pursuit of equal rights for minorities who continue to be oppressed. This also includes recognizing diverse sexual orientations and clearing up prejudices and untruths.”

Sex-positive parties are all about creating a space for everyone who wouldn't feel comfortable somewhere else - or wouldn't even be allowed in somewhere else.

At sex-positive parties, you are welcome to appear naked or in a fetish outfit as long as everyone remains respectful and there is no element of coercion according to the standards of such parties.

The main idea is not that people come to our parties to have sex; it’s about making them feel comfortable enough to want to have sex.”

is the name of the sex-positive party poly motion.

The Poly-Motion team tries to eliminate possible misunderstandings by putting up clear signs with explanations and being available on site to answer questions and solve problems.

Because despite the (misleading) hype, “you shouldn’t have the feeling that the point of a party is to fuck or get fucked ,” says Kathi, “because that runs the risk of people feeling pressured You may not actually want to do it (Source: “ Sex-Positive Parties Are Not the Same Thing As Sex Parties” on Vice.com)

The emergence and development of “Sex-Positive” in Berlin

The “sex positive” movement includes a variety of approaches and ideas that aim to destigmatize sexual preferences and identities and promote greater self-acceptance and openness.

This movement has been active in Berlin for some time, particularly in gay and lesbian bars and at festivals such as the Pornfilmfestival Berlin .

This scene has now expanded to other areas: clubs regularly offer sex parties, and events such as the “Berlin Porn Film Festival” attract thousands of visitors every year.

Artistic forms of expression such as performance art or erotic literature are also becoming increasingly popular within this movement. Performance artists like Annie Sprinkle and Ducky DooLittle deal with topics such as sex work, gender and body positivity in their shows.

However, it's not just about living out sexual fantasies; It's also about setting clear boundaries and promoting communication - because consensus is an important aspect of sexual encounters within the "sex positive" movement.

Breaking taboos and liberation: How sex-positive approaches reduce prejudice and shame

The sex-positive movement is about an open and unprejudiced attitude towards sexuality. Taboos are broken and liberation is experienced.

These approaches can help reduce prejudice and shame that is often associated with sexual issues. This movement has developed particularly strongly in Berlin in recent years and offers numerous opportunities to gain sex-positive experiences.

The variety of facets of sex-positive thinking is impressive: from BDSM clubs to polyamory to tantra seminars . Artistic forms of expression such as performance art or erotic literature have also found a place in this scene.

fostering prejudice and shame towards homosexuality , bisexuality or transgenderism

A core message is self-acceptance : every person has the right to a satisfying sexuality, regardless of external norms or social expectations.

Sex-positive parties: GQ expert reveals what awaits you there

GQ columnist Mimi Erhardt is an avowed fan of sex-positive parties and explains in her GQ sex column what to expect there - if you embark on the adventure.

The columnists were quickly able to report on their experiences that these were by no means purely sexual orgies.

Instead, they are events that welcome those who are not accepted in other places. This may be due to their appearance or behavior that does not conform to the usual club style and dress code.

At such sensual, open-minded parties, you as a man also have the opportunity to appear in a latex dress or to come with your dominatrix, who has put nipple clamps on you for the occasion.

In the safe environment of the club, visitors are allowed to have sex with themselves and with others if they feel the desire. If not, this is not a problem either.

show off your own body or clothing style

Everything is possible, nothing is neccesary."

the most important rule of all is:

Anyone who touches without prior consent will be expelled from the club.”

Dress code for kinky events: PVC, latex and uniforms

There are more and more exciting “kinky events ,” as sex-positive events are also called, springing up.

Those who like going out are particularly exciting and perhaps enjoy the hedonistic lifestyle, but have no affinity for swinger clubs , are particularly pleased about this.

While there is something old-fashioned about these traditional places, the new events are aimed at a young audience and the queer scene . They take place in rave locations and attract not only the kinky target group but also everyone who loves good electronic music.

The event's dress code is extremely diverse and allows for a wide range of unusual outfits. Latex suits , leather harnesses , transparent PVC chokers , uniforms and mesh bodies without underwear are very welcome here

There is often a specific theme for the kinky parties that stimulates the imagination.

A “normal” outfit is rarely well received in this setting. However, this has nothing to do with wanting to discriminate against “normal people” – it primarily serves to protect the guests. On these nights they want to be able to party in revealing clothing and only be among like-minded people.

To experience a sex-positive party in its full glory, you need the courage to open up. At least metaphorically speaking, the covers must be dropped.

Events, clubs and organizations: Where you can have sex-positive experiences in Berlin

Berlin is known for its open and tolerant attitude towards sexuality and breaking taboos. There are numerous events, clubs and organizations dedicated to the sex-positive movement.

Most of these parties take place at regular intervals in either fixed or changing locations. We have picked out the best for you.

Porn by Pornceptual

Pornceptual is an innovative project by a Berlin artist collective with Brazilian roots that produces sensual photo shoots and magazines and organizes events. The sex parties are open to everyone and accept any sexual orientation, identity or physical appearance, but there is a dress code .

The parties have specific themes and attract a young and trend-conscious target group . The venue is usually the Alte Münze , an industrial site on the Molkenmarkt. Techno dancing is just as natural here as sexual interaction in the numerous rooms and dark corners.

House of Red Doors

The House of Red Doors unforgettable events with talented DJs and provocative art performances every two months at the Salon zur Wilden Renate

Founders Billie Rae Bigsby and Alex J. Eccleston, aka BAD BRUISES, expect their guests to have a certain attitude and wearing a costume is mandatory .

Respect for each other is paramount and no one is allowed to be touched without consent.

There will be fun, giving and receiving love, sex and dancing allowed, although condoms will be handed out before the party begins. Nowadays, branches of the party also take place in London.

poly|motion

Poly|motion is a sex-positive party series that takes place especially in the summer months at the ://about blank club in Berlin. Everyone is welcome and can enjoy the concept of a relaxed and individual celebration.

The atmosphere is less provocative than Pornceptual, but no less stimulating. There is no dress code and you can show up with little or no clothing.

Latex gloves and condoms are available in the darkrooms to ensure everyone feels comfortable and protected. Intimate acts are not forced.

AGAINST in KitKatClub

The KitKatClub in Berlin is known for its techno parties and nudity. The oldest party in the club, the GEGEN , stands for rebellion against conventions and rules.

Everyone is welcome, but the outfit and attitude must be appropriate. Sex is part of the program, but only with the consent of others.

GEGEN is also well suited for beginners into the sex-positive party life . One challenge is finding an appropriate outfit. Respect for other people and the pleasure principle are important principles of the party.

Libidoh in insomnia

The exciting party series Libidoh has thrilled electronic fans over the last two years. The main priority of this sex-positive club experience is to make all guests feel comfortable.

So if you like to show a lot of skin in fetish outfits, want to live out your kinky side or show off your darkest depths, then you've come to the right place.

Of course, this is only possible if every guest is treated with respect. Touching other people is not permitted unless, of course, everyone involved agrees to it. If you come by spontaneously, your appearance should make the bouncer feel like you fit in perfectly.

You can get inspiration at Libidoh on Instagram. The venues change regularly and most recently they were at Insomnia and the Underground Club .

Kinky Galore by Jan Ehret

The Kinky Galore is a relatively new party series in the business. It was founded by Jan Ehret, a versatile artist, DJ and KitKat resident. The unusual thing about Kinky Galore is that you have to be on a circle list to gain entry. Only those who are on this list will find out the location of the next party.

no fixed location for Kinky Galore - it is a traveling party. Furthermore, this party series is not just limited to Berlin; She also performs in other cities such as Hamburg, Frankfurt and Munich.

If you're interested in some exclusive wicked fun , be sure to check out the site immediately - the next party might be just around the corner.

Licking underground

The Licking party in Berlin has been part of the sex-positive party series for three years and is organized UnterTage Club

Everyone is welcome, regardless of sexual orientation or gender, but the party is focused on the queer community .

The idea behind it is to create a temporary community and discrimination, insults and hatred have no place at the party.

Mutual respect is the only celebration policy.

House of Lunacy

Lunacy in Berlin aims to present a new definition of sex-positive spaces . These should be viewed as “cosmopolitan fantasy worlds in which you can lose yourself and find yourself again”.

The diverse themed events focus on discovering and trying out sexual experiences

Sensual evenings, artistic influences, theatrical areas with a positive attitude to the topic of sexuality are created, conscious hedonism is promoted and scope for creative experimentation is offered - this also applies to the dress code of the events.

Club forbidden

The Banban club in Berlin describes itself as a community for compassionate deviants.

Since 2016, it has been offering sexually open-minded people spaces in which they can freely live out their BDSM practices and fetishes . Participation in the events is exclusively reserved for members of the prohibition club.

Berghain

Elon Musk didn't get past Berghain's door guards... but maybe you will!

Berlin's Berghain is known for its strict admission policy and dress code , so of course it can't be missing from this list.

Friendly Pervs

Friendly Pervs is a relative newcomer to the scene, having its origins in the BDSM world . The love of fetish brings kinksters from all over the country together to play.

Compared to other parties on our list, the focus is definitely more on sex than partying . Since sexual interactions are the focus of the event, the room is fully furnished with all sorts of practical (and sometimes pain-inducing) furniture.

The scope of this party is rather small, which puts more focus on intimacy and social interactions and, above all, creates a safe space to experiment with different kink constellations.

They actually call themselves “The Friendly Perv Society” , but have now expanded to Hamburg and Vienna and welcome everyone, regardless of previous knowledge, to join in.

F*ck Berlin – Visual journey of discovery from rbb

A summer in the capital's open-minded scene: In this community, several people make love at the same time, let themselves be tied up or punished with a whip by someone else; They experience adventurous performances or dare to dance almost naked for the first time.

Nine scene-goers talk about their experiences and feelings in nightlife and their sexual emancipation. “F*ck Berlin” is an intimate journey of discovery with a female perspective on the topic of sex.

The first episode is all about sex-positive parties. Episode 2 continues with the topic of “Kinky” .

All episodes of the rbb television film series are free of charge in the ARD media library .

Challenges for an inclusive society: combating discrimination and overcoming barriers

In an inclusive society, discrimination and barriers should not play a role. But unfortunately we are still a long way from achieving this ideal.

The “sex positive” movement in Berlin also faces challenges when it comes to building an inclusive and diverse community .

Because here too there are prejudices and exclusion that need to be combated. An important step in this direction is awareness of different perspectives and needs within the sex-positive scene.

This is the only way that all members of a community can treat each other with respect and enjoy sexuality-positive experiences together.

It takes a continuous confrontation with one's own prejudices and an open ear for the needs of other people - this is the only way to create an inclusive society in which every person is accepted regardless of gender, origin or sexual orientation.