Summer film nights on the banks of the Elbe: A festival for young and old!
Experience the Film Nights on the banks of the Elbe 2025: An open-air cinema with over 100 films and concerts in Dresden's old town.

Summer film nights on the banks of the Elbe: A festival for young and old!
Summer in Dresden is over, and that means that the Elbe meadows between the Carola and Augustus Bridges are once again transformed into a venue for culture and entertainment. The popular “Film Nights on the banks of the Elbe” are already in full swing and are attracting numerous visitors. Cinema fans can look forward to a colorful program until August 24, 2025.
This open-air cinema-style event features nearly 100 films and 14 concerts that appeal to all ages. A special highlight are the children's and family activities that take place in the afternoon hours. The animated film “The Wild Robot” will be shown on June 29th, followed by the premiere of the new “Garfield” film on July 5th. The Oscar-winning film “Flow” completes the program with its screening on August 23rd. So you won't get bored!
Special guests and theme evenings
But it's not just films on the program: prominent film stars are expected on various evenings. Director Sönke Wortmann will present his work “The Nickname” on June 28th, and Hollywood star Sam Riley will present “Cranko” on July 9th. Another highlight is planned for July 7th: the team from “I want everything. Hildegard Knef” will also be there.
The organizers also came up with something very special. Certain themed evenings will not only provide a visual treat, but also a good dose of fun: on August 2nd, after the performance of “Dirty Dancing,” you can hit the dance floor at a dance party. And anyone interested in “The Big Lebowski” has the opportunity to appear at the midnight cinema in a bathrobe and receive a free White Russian. These evenings promise to be a complete success.
A football classic and the backdrop of the Canaletto view
One of the best backdrops Dresden has to offer is the Canaletto view. From here you have an unforgettable view of the impressive silhouette of the city - a sight that inspired the painter Bernardo Bellotto. Here on the Königsufer, wide meadows invite you to linger and the Augustus Bridge ensures easy access to the old town. This charming location is also ideal for Coastal Rowing athletes, who sprint into the water on the wonderfully located beach.
Whether at the Augustbrücke, where the main entrance to the film night is, or at the Elbe meadows - the backdrop on the Königsufer gives every event a touch of magic. Despite the current demolition work on the Carola Bridge, the area remains accessible to visitors. A restructured visitor concept ensures that events can take place as usual, even if the east side is closed.
The film nights are just part of the cultural offerings that the city offers during the summer. The events are perfect for enjoying the warm summer evenings in good company and immersing yourself in the fascinating world of film.
So it's time for film fans and culture enthusiasts to pull out the calendar and mark the exciting events. A visit to the Elbe meadows is worth it!
You can find more information about the film nights and the program at T Online, and details on the Canaletto view The finals. Also offers Dresden magazine an overview of other events and highlights in the region.