Update
Eindhoven opens the 2026–2027 cultural season with DE OPENING
Tamara Savelkoels
The Evoluon in Eindhoven was the setting for the official kick-off of DE OPENING this week: the national start of the cultural season and the successor to the Uitmarkt. Exactly 100 days before the festival, DE OPENING previewed the programme that will turn Eindhoven into a stage for theatre, music, dance, visual arts and new encounters from 28 to 30 August.
DE OPENING
In one weekend, DE OPENING gives a taste of everything the cultural season has to offer. Artists and makers from across the Netherlands come together during DE OPENING at two stages (the main stage at Stadhuisplein and a stage at Markt), at participating cultural venues, and at public gathering spots throughout the city. Visitors enjoy these three days, but the main goal is to inspire them to keep exploring theatres, museums, and cultural venues long after. DE OPENING wants to reach a wide audience and show that arts and culture thrive across the Netherlands. This year, Eindhoven is the host city.
Eindhoven as host city
Eindhoven is the city of innovation, tech, and design, but above all: a city of makers. Over 125 years ago, Philips brought electric light to Eindhoven, giving the city an enormous boost. That pioneering energy is still alive today, and we're happy to share it with the rest of the Netherlands. Precisely because Eindhoven is known as an innovative tech hub, a rich cultural life is essential. The city is growing fast and still has a long way to go. Culture adds color to all of this: it brings together Eindhoven locals and the many new (international) residents, and forms the foundation for connection and belonging.
Program
At the kick-off, DE OPENING announced the first program highlights and launched the official DE OPENING app. Through the app, visitors discover the full program, routes, and participating makers. From 28 to 30 August, Eindhoven offers a stage for (street) theater, art, musicals, urban and pop music, film, dance, and more. Find out more about the program at www.openingcultureleseizoen.nl.
