Beer consumption is declining, alcohol-free options are booming – yet the topic of substances remains highly relevant at festivals.

What do concepts for drug checking and safer partying look like when traditional alcohol culture fades and new risks like spiking emerge? This panel brings together different perspectives to explore how festivals can remain safe, responsible, and still fun.

With input from Jördis Brankatschk (UNYTED Festival), Dawn Dines (Stamp Out Spiking), and Rüdiger Schmolke (eclipse e.V. / Chill out e.V. / SONICS e.V.), the discussion will highlight practical experiences from prevention work, festival production, and advocacy. The session is moderated by Emiko Gejic (Berlinsidestories).

We’ll ask: What strategies exist to minimize risks? How can approaches from different fields be combined? And where are festivals headed that want to rethink intoxication? A conversation about safety, harm reduction, and the future of festival culture.