Berlin, 4 June 2010 Germany’s number one sports city looks forward to a new summer football fairytale. The biggest fan party in Germany gets going in time for the kick-off of the FIFA World Cup in South Africa. The German capital celebrates the World Cup start from 11 to 18 June 2010 in front of the Berlin Olympic Stadium. From 23 June 2010 the party continues right up to the final on the Straße des 17. Juni.

Besides the live transmission of the matches from South Africa, Germany’s only official FIFA Fan FestTM in front of the Olympic Stadium and between Yitzhak-Rabin-Straße and Großer Stern will offer a comprehensive daily programme of entertainment from 12 noon to 11pm every day with live acts and Sony 3D viewing. Alongside Sydney, Rio de Janeiro, Mexico, Paris and Rome, Berlin is one of the six international cities selected by FIFA as official venues for the Fan Mile celebrations with public viewing.

Everyone who would like to experience the football event of the year and the relaxed World Cup atmosphere live in the city on the River Spree can take advantage of the exclusive all-in package offered by Berlin Tourismus Marketing GmbH encompassing a two-night stay, Berlin WelcomeCard and tickets for the VIP hospitality area on the Fan Mile. From the VIP stands in front of the main stage, fans will enjoy uninterrupted views of the giant screen and an exclusive buffet and drinks will be provided in the adjacent VIP lounge. Find out more on www.visitBerlin.de.

In the past Berlin has repeatedly shown itself to be an excellent venue for big sports events and demonstrated its warm hospitality. The images of the Fan Mile for the 2006 World Cup featuring millions of spectators supporting and peacefully celebrating their teams were beamed all around the world and cemented the positive image of the city as a cosmopolitan sports metropolis. This year, too, hundreds of thousands of football fans of all nations are expected to flock to the World Cup party around the Siegessäule (Victory Column).

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