HAPPENING 30 March 2025 | Rotterdam’s LantarenVenster and the Arab Film Festival are marking Eid al-Fitr with two screenings that explore love, identity and cultural heritage. Audiences can expect Moroccan tea and sweets between the films.
Eid Mubarak film night returns to LantarenVenster
On Sunday 30 March, Rotterdam will play host to a special Eid al-Fitr (Suikerfeest) event at LantarenVenster, organised in collaboration with the Arab Film Festival. The evening programme features two cinematic titles that delve into themes of identity, tradition and personal connection, set against the backdrop of Arab culture.
The event will open at 16:15 with a short welcome by Arab Film Festival director Rosh Abdelfatah, followed by the screening of Al Hawaa Sultan, a romantic comedy that traces the story of Sara and Ali, two childhood friends whose bond has lasted into adulthood. Surrounded by family and friends, the pair share everyday adventures and eventually grow closer, recognising something deeper between them.
After a break during which Moroccan tea and sweets will be offered in the foyer, the programme will resume at 21:00 with the screening of Everybody Loves Touda. The film pays homage to the Moroccan shikhats – female performers of traditional music and dance – and follows a protagonist fighting for recognition in a male-dominated artistic world. The film has been written and directed by Nabil Ayouch, known for The Blue Caftan, in collaboration with his partner Maryam Touzani.
Both films reflect the diversity within contemporary Arab cinema and aim to highlight voices and perspectives often underrepresented on mainstream screens.
Film schedule
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16:15 – Welcome by Rosh Abdelfatah and screening of Al Hawaa Sultan
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18:35–21:00 – Moroccan tea and sweets served; dinner options available in the foyer (table reservation recommended)
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21:00 – Screening of Everybody Loves Touda
Location and directions
LantarenVenster
LantarenVenster is located on the Wilhelminapier in Rotterdam Zuid, an area known for its cultural venues, striking architecture and views over the Nieuwe Maas river. The cinema is easily reached via metro (station Wilhelminaplein) or by bike and tram from the city centre.