Ghent Hosts a Unique Floating Cinema as Part of Openbare Werken Festival
Ghent – In a spectacular display of cinema on water, around 80 people gathered in inflatable boats to watch the classic French film L’Atalante as part of the Openbare Werken city festival. The Bergiebrug quay in Ghent was transformed into an outdoor floating cinema, creating an unforgettable cultural experience in the heart of the city.
As reported by VRT News, the event took place on Friday, May 16, 2025. The screening was organized by Ciné Rio, a local independent cinema in Ghent, and showcased L’Atalante, a celebrated 1934 black-and-white film. While approximately 80 viewers floated on the water in inflatable boats—some provided by the organizers and others brought by attendees—an additional 200 spectators enjoyed the film from the banks.
Creating a Cultural Experience on Water
Among the floating audience was Josephine, a first-time viewer of the film who looked forward to the novelty of the experience. To ensure comfort during the chilly evening, she came prepared with a thick coat and a warm blanket. Attendees were also treated to small aperitif packages before the screening.
Not everyone was as prepared for the cool weather—Jens and his girlfriend, on a romantic outing, hoped for sunshine to keep warm. Fortunately, the organizers offered blankets to help keep the cold at bay. Alongside the cinema, a temporary summer terrace was set up on the quay, where festival-goers enjoyed live music, drinks, snacks, and local vendor stalls.
According to Janne Quintelier of Ciné Rio, the idea for a “drive-in” style cinema had been in the works since shortly after the height of the coronavirus pandemic. However, it was postponed due to restrictions on large gatherings. When the city’s Openbare Werken festival provided the perfect opportunity, the team opted for a creative twist—replacing cars with boats to launch a floating cinema.
A Weekend of Culture in Ghent
The Openbare Werken festival continues through Sunday, May 18, 2025, offering a rich program that includes performances, guided walks, and art installations across various locations in Ghent. On the evening of Saturday, May 17, the festival will screen the animated film FLOW by Latvian director Gints Zilbalodis. Known for its minimal dialogue and striking visuals, FLOW adds to the culturally immersive experience the festival promises.
Visitors looking for more information can stop by Bar Edward on Anseeleplein, where schedules, maps, and assistance are readily available.
Eurotoday is a daily online newspaper that offers unique and independent coverage of European and international affairs. With a broad European outlook, Eurotoday reports on EU politics, major developments within member states, and significant stories on the global stage—all through a European lens.
Leave a Reply