Column: Through the night: When daydrinking becomes politics

In the heart of Frankfurt, under the sweltering sun of late afternoon, a new phenomenon has taken root in the city's nightlife culture, what locals call “Daydrinking.” At around five o'clock, near the Taunustor district, a crowd gathers outside the Elaine’s bar, waiting for the chance to buy cheap beer. The air is thick with sweat, perfume, and the scent of alcohol. People wear open shirts, shorts, and bare shoulders, unbothered by the heat. Some hold glasses of Aperol Spritz or bottles of rosé, while others sip vodka sodas, their faces illuminated by the glow of streetlights and the music drifting from the bar. The scene is far removed from the traditional night-out experience. Once, the evening began with a drink before heading into clubs. Now, many choose to start their nights earlier, staying outdoors well past sunset. This shift has sparked debate among local bar owners and club managers, who refer to the trend as a “Politikum”, a political issue. They argue that existing laws and regulations designed for nighttime activities are being challenged by this daytime drinking culture, which operates outside the usual framework. Despite the growing popularity of Daydriving, there is little official discussion about it in municipal politics. Local officials have remained quiet, even as the scene continues to expand. Bar and club operators say they don’t want to ban daytime drinking, but they are concerned about how current rules apply to these gatherings. For example, some clubs refuse to keep their doors open during the day to avoid disturbing nearby residents, even though large groups continue to gather outside. This change reflects a broader transformation in Frankfurt’s nightlife. What once took place behind closed doors now unfolds in public spaces, often under the open sky. Patrons arrive midday, stay until the early hours, and sometimes return home still feeling the buzz of the night. The city’s nightlife has become more flexible, less rigid, and increasingly integrated with daily life. For those who frequent these daytime events, the appeal lies in the freedom to enjoy the night without the pressure of a strict schedule. It offers a slower pace, a chance to unwind without the rush of crowds inside clubs. Yet, for venue owners, the challenge is maintaining profitability. Clubs rely on customers entering through their doors, but with fewer people moving indoors, revenue can suffer. Some operators have expressed frustration over the lack of regulation and the difficulty of enforcing existing rules in such an informal setting. As the sun begins to set, the atmosphere shifts slightly. The line at the kiosk thins, and the music grows quieter. Despite the fading light, the energy remains. Conversations continue, laughter echoes, and the sense of community lingers. Many here see themselves returning again soon, perhaps tomorrow or the next day. The question remains, however, whether this evolving tradition will lead to lasting changes in how the city manages its nightlife, or whether it will eventually fade back into the shadows of the night.