In Short
Grab your pillows, blankets, and favorite people, and you’re ready to go — because the Binnenalster Film Festival is back! From September 11 to 14, Jungfernstieg will be transformed into a real open-air cinema that is guaranteed to give you goosebumps. Right on the waterfront, in the heart of the city, under the glowing Hamburg evening sky – if that doesn’t sound like the perfect late summer plan, we don’t know what does.
Cinema on the Water: The Floating Screen
What makes the Binnenalster Film Festival so special? The huge screen actually floats right on the Binnenalster! While you sit comfortably on the promenade — on blankets or cushions you’ve brought with you, of course — the lights of the city are reflected in the water, creating an atmosphere that you can only experience in Hamburg. It’s free and open to everyone. Whether it’s date night or a get-together with friends, there’s something for everyone here.
The Program: Four Films, Four Heartfelt Stories
This year, four special films are on the program from Thursday to Sunday — each evening brings its own unique magic:
- Thursday, September 11 – My Neighbor Totoro
An enchanting start! The Studio Ghibli classic brings childhood feelings and a large dose of Japanese fantasy directly to the Alster. - Friday, September 12 – E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Pure nostalgia! Who didn’t have tears in their eyes the first time they saw E.T. trying to phone home? - Saturday, September 13 – The Intouchables
Humorous, touching, and inspiring. This true story of friendship goes straight to the heart — and is perfect for an evening with loved ones. - Sunday, September 14 – The Devil’s Club
To top it all off, a little revenge, self-empowerment, and lots of ’90s vibes. The perfect mix of wit and charm!
All films start at 8:15 p.m., so there’s plenty of time to grab some snacks or arrive early and get comfortable.
Looking for more free activities? Here are our tips!
Small Festival Vibes Before the big FILMFEST HAMBURG
The Binnenalster Film Festival is not only a wonderful late-summer hangout, but also the unofficial kick-off to FILMFEST HAMBURG, which starts two weeks later. It’s basically a warm-up — only outdoors, relaxed, and with a picnic blanket instead of a cinema seat. Incidentally, the whole thing is organized by City Management Hamburg and the Verein lebendiger Jungfernstieg e.V. association, who put their heart and soul into ensuring that culture is visible and tangible on Hamburg’s streets.
Tips for Your Visit
- Bring along: A blanket, pillow, maybe even a camping chair — if you like to be comfortable, you’ll be well prepared.
- Snacks & drinks: There are small stands nearby where you can buy sausages, Crepes, etc. — or you can simply pack your favorite picnic. Alcohol is allowed, but please drink in moderation and respectfully.
- It pays to arrive early: It gets crowded quickly, especially when the weather is nice. If you want a good spot with a view of the screen, plan a little extra time.
- Use public transportation: Parking spaces around the Binnenalster are scarce and expensive – so it’s best to take the bus or train (e.g., U1/U2/U4 to Jungfernstieg).
Whether you’re looking for romance, nostalgia, or friendship, the Binnenalster Film Festival is perfect for anyone who wants to end the summer with a cinematic highlight. So mark your calendars, grab your favorite people, and enjoy deluxe movie nights right by the water.
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