Schwuz is one of Germany's most iconic queer nightclubs, known for its vibrant history and deep cultural significance, particularly within Berlin's LGBTQ+ community. Founded in 1977 as the Schwules Zentrum (Gay Center), Schwuz began as a safe space and social hub for queer people at a time when such venues were scarce and sometimes risky. Originally located in West Berlin's Schöneberg district—a historically gay neighborhood—it quickly became a cornerstone of queer nightlife, activism, and culture, blending party atmosphere with political engagement.

As Berlin transformed through reunification and beyond, Schwuz also underwent significant changes, mirroring the city’s dynamic energy. In the late 1990s, the club moved to Kreuzberg, a shift that marked its growing popularity and reputation as a progressive venue not just for dancing, but for creative expression, drag performance, and social activism. In 2013, Schwuz relocated again, this time to a former brewery in the trendy district of Neukölln.

This spacious venue, with its distinctive industrial character, has allowed Schwuz to expand its programming, featuring multiple dance floors and larger events while continuing to attract a diverse, international crowd. Schwuz is celebrated for its inclusive ethos, innovative events that fuse music and diverse art forms, and its pivotal role as a platform for queer voices. Over the years, it has helped shape Berlin’s reputation as one of the world’s leading queer capitals, and it remains a bastion of nightlife, intersectionality, and acceptance.

Notable artists who have performed at Schwuz include international stars such as Peaches, Planningtorock, and Cakes Da Killa, alongside renowned local acts like DJ Gloria Viagra, the eclectic House of Presents drag collective, and DJ Judy LaDivina. Schwuz’s stage has also welcomed acclaimed performers like The Knife, Crystal Waters, and Mykki Blanco, further adding to its legacy as a vital home for avant-garde talent and queer artistry.