Rethinking Intoxication – Drug Checking, Spiking & Safer Festivals

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.