How to Find a "Rave Party"

People often ask how they can find rave parties in their towns. I've come across this situation when visiting new scenes in Europe, India or California. I recently saw the question at Yahoo Answers, and decided to organize my practical advice to newbies and travelers alike:

The best way to find out about secret parties is to know someone who belongs to the scene. Usually someone at school is a rave fan. But you need to be discreet when asking around. There is a negative prejudice against raves, specially in America. Moreover, even rave insiders are wary of the term, which became a tacky designation these days, an indication of naive outsiders and poly-drug abuse.

Instead, ask for "underground parties" that play "techno" or "electronic dance" music "kind of rave". It does not hurt to perform a bit blase' ("cool"), to suggest that you are already a bit of an insider, just from a different city or scene...

Another way to connect with a local rave/club scene is to ask to junior DJs at mainstream clubs, or record aficionados browsing in record stores. Those kids handing out fliers outside main clubs can also be very helpful sometimes. As you see, this may take some investigative efforts, which, in itself, is already part of the fun.

Finally, there are a few websites dedicated to rave parties. They may contain hidden links to calendars organized by region. Google them, and carefully look for very discreet links placed at the margins of the website. Remember, too, that ravers typically drive hundreds of miles just to get to a good party. So, if you don't know the local scene, make sure to gather some information about if the party is any good before going. In these situations, better go with friends, so you feel more comfortable.

More importantly, party safe. Rave culture is a wonderful space to meet really nice people and to have a great time. But, as a site of experimentation and liberation, people often get out of control. As such, "make freedom your foundation, through the mastery of yourself." (Socrates)

Bar 25: Disco Cabaret in Berlin

The greatest attraction in Berlin's club scene these days is Bar 25, self-fashioned as an “entertainment park for grown-ups”. Comprising a nightclub, cabaret, restaurant and hotel by the river Spree, Bar 25 is renowned for its uber-eccentric multi-day parties spearheaded by an arts collective who resides in the property. Mixing 80s, house and minimal Techno, its dance floor has seen DJs such as Richie Hawtin and Ricardo Villalobos. Opened in 2004, it regularly attracts 2,000 plus revellers who line up outside, against the venue's 400 maximum capacity. The door staff is thus very selective in picking the most upbeat, eccentric and accessorized people from the crowd. For veteran Ibiza clubbers, Bar 25 may resemble a mix of open-air Amnesia and VIP Manumission Candy Bar...

For a taste of Bar 25, check out this video and the lyrics below:





"12345und20" (The Bar 25 Song)

Rough translation from German
(- thanks to dr0fn0nothing at “The Shituationist Institute”!):

The doctor said I am crazy and I have to go to a hospital in Danzig
But I only listened to a bit to techno at Bar 25
The doctor prescribed me some pills I shall take every day
But I stayed with the old ones, because I simply like them better

1 2 3 the sauna is burning, party party no one sleeps
1 2 3 4 5 and 20 no i will not go to Danzig!

The doctor said I am senile and I have to go to the lake for a cure
But I am only partying a bit too much in my garden at the river Spree
The doctor said that I need structure, a clear line, if you know what I mean
And he’s right, the only problem is that the therapy is pretty exhausting

1 2 3 are you also hartz 4*? All is right but the piano
1 2 3 4 5 and sex, with my girl OK but not in my car
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 where has the last gone?
1 2 3 4 5 and 20 no i will not go to Danzig!

The doctor said I am crazy and I have to go to a hospital in Danzig
But I only listened to a bit to techno at Bar 25
——

*Hartz 4: unemployment benefit that forces the person to take hard jobs, technical training, and relocation to cheaper locations.