HAPPENING 11–28 August 2026 | If you love going to the movies, you are definitely going to want to visit Pleinbioscoop. First organised in 1987, it has grown into the largest open air cinema in Europe, screening both Hollywood blockbusters and arthouse films.
Open-air cinema returns to Wilhelminapier this August
The outdoor cinema experience known locally as Pleinbioscoop will make its return to Rotterdam from 11 to 28 August 2026. For this year's edition, cultural venue LantarenVenster has once again taken the reins to ensure continuity for what has become a cherished summer tradition.
Taking place at the Kop van de Wilhelminapier, on the grass field right in front of Hotel New York, the event will transform the area into a temporary cinema under the stars. The initiative is designed to bring people together for relaxed evenings of film, community and atmosphere.
The ultimate summer experience
Pleinbioscoop is one of Rotterdam's most enduring summer traditions. It annually draws large crowds and fosters a brilliant sense of community in our urban landscape. You can rent a chair or bring your own and cosy up in front of the huge screen. On the programme are the best films of the past year in a great mix of arthouse cinema and top tier Hollywood blockbusters.
2026 Programme highlights
The 2026 programme spans eighteen evenings and features a wonderfully varied selection of films. Audiences can expect summer highlights from the past film year, sneak previews, classic favourites and themed film nights.
A notable highlight this year is a special partnership with the Fenix museum. They will be hosting an evening dedicated to the 2026 road movie Porte Bagage by director Abdelkarim El-Fassi. The film explores themes of family, departure and homecoming, making it a perfect fit for a warm summer night on the pier.
You are highly encouraged to bring friends or family to enjoy the screenings in this informal, open air setting. Refreshments will be readily available on site throughout the event.
Pleinbioscoop 📷 Fleur Beerthuis
Tickets and getting there
Tickets are currently on sale through the LantarenVenster website. Due to the event's tremendous popularity, we advise booking early to secure a place. The festival grounds open every evening at 19:00, allowing you to find the perfect viewing spot before the movie begins at sunset.
The Kop van de Wilhelminapier is easily accessible by bike, car or public transport, including tram and metro connections to Wilhelminaplein station. The venue offers scenic views of the city skyline and sits comfortably within walking distance of several cafes and restaurants.
