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Future of film nights in Dresden: dispute over Königsufer escalates!
Dresden is celebrating the film nights on the banks of the Elbe with new formats, uncertain perspectives and numerous events until August 2025.
Future of film nights in Dresden: dispute over Königsufer escalates!
The film nights on the banks of the Elbe in Dresden, which have been a highlight for cinema enthusiasts for over 33 years, face an uncertain future. Despite the most popular open-air cinema event in Germany, which attracted around 230,000 visitors in 2023, there are growing concerns about the general conditions for the coming years. MDR reports on the Europe-wide tender for the right to use the Königsufer, which the city council decided on in mid-2023. The previous organizer, Pan GmbH, is fighting against this decision.
The concerns of Philipp Hartmanis, the managing director of the film nights, are not unfounded. He sees the uncertainties resulting from the tender and the partial collapse of the Carola Bridge as major challenges for the event. The current contract for the film nights is secured until 2026 because the city did not terminate until March 2023. But plans for 2027 and beyond are uncertain.
An exciting program awaits
Visitors can expect a colorful program for the current season from June 19 to August 24, 2025. From classic films to children's events to top-class concerts - there is something for every taste. On Tuesday, July 1, 2025, the highly anticipated film “Gladiator II” will be shown, doors open at 8:00 p.m., the film begins at 9:30 p.m. The plans also include easily accessible family events, such as performances of “Little Mole” or “Despicable Me 4.”
The film nights on the banks of the Elbe have established themselves not only in Dresden, but also in other locations in Germany, offering a platform for film lovers and artists alike. The city plans to further diversify the concept and introduce new formats, giving hope for innovative development in the coming years.
The importance of the events industry
There are many dedicated professionals behind the scenes of the film nights. The interest group of independent service providers in the event industry (ISDV) advocates for the rights and interests of all those involved. From event technicians to stage builders - these professional groups are often little visible, but make an indispensable contribution to successful events. The ISDV offers support and advice in various matters, be it conflicts or administrative questions [ISDV](https://forum Veranstaltungswirtschaft.org/).
The challenges posed by the tender cannot be downplayed. It is clear that without clear perspectives and security, investments in the festival are not possible. Hartmanis and his team are ready to apply for the tender if the general conditions are right. We can only hope that this summer the film nights will take place with their usual splendor and attract many spectators.
With the current program and the variety of dates, the film nights offer a fantastic opportunity for an entertaining summer, which will hopefully continue to exist for many film lovers in the future city tour.