Practical information: DE OPENING

From August 28 to 30, Eindhoven kicks off the new cultural season with DE OPENING. Throughout the weekend, the city comes alive with performances, behind-the-scenes experiences at local cultural institutions, and access to all Eindhoven museums with just one ticket. To help you make the most of it, we've rounded up everything you need to know about DE OPENING.

What is DE OPENING?

Eindhoven’s cultural scene has plenty to offer all year round, but during DE OPENING, it really pulls out all the stops. The festival marks the national launch of the new cultural season, and this year Eindhoven has the honor of hosting the celebration.

Expect a weekend packed with free concerts, museum visits, workshops, outdoor movie screenings, and much more. Curious about what’s on? Keep reading for some of the program highlights.

When and where?

DE OPENING takes place from Friday, August 28 through Sunday, August 30. The festival spreads across the city, with all Eindhoven museums taking part and stages popping up at locations such as Markt, Stadhuisplein, and Ketelhuisplein.

In other words: wherever you go in Eindhoven, chances are you'll run into a piece of the festival. Want to know exactly what's happening and when? Be sure to download the DE OPENING app for the latest schedule and updates.

What’s on the program?

Got a minute? The program is extensive, so a little planning goes a long way. To make things easier, we've already highlighted some of the must-sees. Look out for: Musical Awards The Kick-Off, EMOVES, performances by illusionist Hans Klok, Philzuid, and Fresku at Stadhuisplein, as well as Eindhoven cult favorites Stuurbaard Bakkebaard. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

How much do tickets cost?

All performances at the festival stages are free to attend. You can also join a range of free activities and workshops hosted by organizations such as CKE.

Museums do require a ticket, but there’s good news: one ticket gives you access to all participating museums. There’s no special festival pass. Simply purchase admission at the first museum you visit, and that same ticket can then be used at other participating venues, including the Philips Museum, Van Abbemuseum, DAF Museum, Museumpark VONK, and more.

Whether you’ll need a ticket depends on the specific part of the program you’d like to visit, but many activities throughout DE OPENING are completely free.