Issuu

DE OPENING

Joana Voost (19)

Ode Esra Altmis Women of the World & Brainport

The rhythm of the outdoors

Summer has a different rhythm. The pulse of what has been and what is yet to come. The season in which we slow down for a moment and discover new places. Unexpected encounters that make my days in the city special. In my work for Eindless, I constantly meet people who give our region colour: creators, volunteers, entrepreneurs, artists, and residents. People with different backgrounds, stories, and dreams, but with one thing in common: they all contribute in their own way to a city that continues to surprise.

You can see this reflected in this double edition for July and August. Full of stories, inspiration, and an agenda that invites you to get out and about. From music and theatre to exhibitions, festivals, and places you might not have known yet.

A special moment this summer is THE OPENING. At the end of August, Eindhoven is the host city for the national kick-off of the cultural season, a moment that is already celebrated locally every year by events such as Hit the City and performances at the Parktheater. This year, this extra event promises to be a weekend where culture reveals what it does best: bringing people together, offering new perspectives, and opening up worlds.

I invite you to be curious this summer. To go outside and visit that performance, festival, or exhibition that you might normally walk right past. You are sure to discover something new about the city, about someone else, or perhaps even... about yourself.

I wish you a wonderful summer full of inspiration, wonder, and beautiful encounters.

Lidy Lathouwers

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Eindless Magazine

In this edition

COLOPHON July/August 2026

Eindless magazine is a publication of stichting Uit in Eindhoven

Editing & publication Loubna Bakra, Claire van der Elst, Yukiko Funakoshi, Ailén Gamberoni, Ineke Hurkmans, Mathilde Lageman, Magazine management & editor-in-chief Lidy Lathouwers

Vertalingen Duncan Hollands, STE Languages Photography Eddie Mol, Willem Wouterse Design Irene Pijnenburg, Plan C

Partners ‘Wij zijn Eindless!’ STE Languages, Expat Spouses Initiative Eindhoven, Eindhoven Airport, > 30 collectieve culturele organisaties, aangesloten bij stichting Uit in Eindhoven

Partners ‘We are Eindless!’ STE Languages, Expat Spouses Initiative Eindhoven, Eindhoven Airport, > 30 collective cultural organizations, affiliated with the Uit in Eindhoven foundation

Eindless magazine is published 10 times a year in Dutch and English. Oplage 40.000 + online NL & ENG. Distribution 30.000 h-a-h in Eindhoven, 10.000 free via public points in Best, Eindhoven, Geldrop-Mierlo, Heeze, Helmond, Nuenen, Son & Breugel, Veldhoven, Valkenswaard, Waalre. Printing Nieuwsdruk Nederland. Distribution Tour de Ville, Spotta.

Tips, comments or press releases? info@uitineindhoven.nl

Eindless magazine also on the reading table of your bar / restaurant / hotel / gallery / shop / coffee bar / waiting room? Let us know. eindless.nl | uitineindhoven.nl | facebook.com/eindless |

Uitkrant jaargang 37, Eindless Jaargang 4, edition 7

Next edition September 2026: From 20 augustus 2026.

COVERIMAGE • © Photo Kas van Vliet

The Opening of the cultural season 26/27 • Open your world

• Artist: Chanou; she is performing on stage at the Markt in Eindhoven on Saturday, August 29, alongside many other artists. See page 3 until 6

DE OPENING of the cultural season!

Duocolumn Joana & Sena in Loubna Bakra’s place

Soft Landing

Arrival and departure

Out agenda July & August

Concerts, theatre, exhibitions, and more

Muziekgebouw Eindhoven

Interview with Jessica Dassen

Interview

Lianne Bongers about Biophilic Design

Made in Eindhoven Corn mill the Volharding

Burst your bubble Ally for inclusion

Column Mathilde

The life lessons of Binki

Women of the World & Brainport

A posthumous tribute to an honorary citizen Esra Altmis

Monthly Overview July & August What you shouldn’t miss this month

Global Flavors & Traditions

Drink your coffee or tea ice-cold

FR 28 to SUN 30 August • City Hall Square, Markt & 27 cultural venues in the city

of the cultural season

From Friday 28 to Sunday 30 August 2026, Eindhoven will be the stage for the start of the national cultural season 26/27. A wide range of art and culture will be presented on a large open-air stage on City Hall Square and a stage on the Markt, free of charge and open to everyone. In addition, there are 27 cultural venues in Eindhoven that are offering a programme or opening their doors specifically for THE OPENING. Think of open days at TAC, United Cowboys, Sectie-C, and the Parktheater. There are Outdoor Films at LAB-1 and Natlab, and a joint museum campaign by the Eindhoven museums. There are also workshops and exhibitions at various locations in the city.

Open your world!

Culture broadens your horizons. You see stories you didn’t know before, hear voices you haven’t heard before, and encounter perspectives that challenge you to look at yourself and the world around you differently. Culture is what connects us, especially in times of polarization. It gives breathing room to public debate. That is what DE OPENING celebrates: the essential role of culture as the foundation of a resilient, open, and free society.

Artists, creators, and visitors come together from all over the Netherlands to celebrate the start of a new cultural season. This is the moment when culture becomes visible, tangible, and accessible to everyone.

Eindhoven Host City this year

Eindhoven is the second host city for DE OPENING. Originally, the event always took place in Amsterdam as De Uitmarkt. Last year, it was held in Apeldoorn for the first time. From now on, DE OPENING will land in a different city every year during the last weekend of August to celebrate the power and connection of culture at the start of a new season. Artists who will be performing in theatres or concert halls later in that season will present themselves. There are previews of upcoming shows. Attention is paid to emerging talent, but also to celebrated stars. Museums and galleries open their doors with special promotions.

Satellite cities join in

For the first time, satellite cities are also joining in. Alongside Eindhoven, and under the banner of THE OPENING, they present their own preview of the cultural season during the same weekend. In this way,

THE OPENING grows into a national event, in which cities together demonstrate how culture opens worlds everywhere in the Netherlands.

With thanks to

THE OPENING is made possible by the joint commitment and solidarity of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW), the VriendenLoterij, Fonds21, VSBfonds, the Cultuurfonds, the VandenEnde Foundation, and key (media) partners such as Stichting Musical Awards, AVROTROS, Eventim, DPGMedia, and Uit in Eindhoven (with Eindless magazine). With thanks to Stichting Cultuur Eindhoven, Eindhoven365, and the Municipality of Eindhoven.

Download DE OPENING-app

Download the DE OPENING app and discover the full programme & the interactive map of DE OPENING 2026.

Moreinfo?

Go to openingcultureleseizoen.nl Or follow De Opening on Instagram.

OPEN YOUR WORLD

Programme

FRIDAY, 28 AUGUST

Main Stage Stadhuisplein

The opening of THE OPENING

On Friday evening, the national cultural season kicks off festively with a grand open-air programme on Stadhuisplein.

After a spectacular chain reaction machine by De Ontdekfabriek from Eindhoven, THE OPENING takes place with a magical moment: illusionist Hans Klok symbolically presses the ‘button’. This is followed by a full evening programme packed with song, dance, theatre, cabaret, and surprising performances. Artists and companies touring throughout the Netherlands this autumn will give exclusive previews of their shows.

Among others, Philzuid, led by Duncan Ward, accompanies guest performances by Fresku, Zoë Livay, soprano Aylin Sezer, and Joël Borelli, together with rapper Extince Philzuid forms the musical thread of the evening, while impressive visual effects transform Stadhuisplein into a spectacular backdrop. The evening is presented by Soy Kroonen and can be followed live via NPO Start and Omroep Brabant.

SATURDAY, 29 AUGUST

Main Stage Stadhuisplein

Brabant’s Pride

Cultural creators from Eindhoven and the rest of Brabant will be showcasing themselves on the main stage at Stadhuisplein.

The day starts with the Great Children’s Book Show featuring Oscar Kocken in the morning and builds up to a true, classic Philzuid Mob explosion in the afternoon.

In the evening, an exuberant programme follows with live music by Philharmonie Brainport & Friends, featuring Björn van der Doelen and Gerard van Maasakkers, among others. The evening will be presented by Jordy Graat, known from Omroep Brabant

Stage on the Market

Eindhoven Next Up

From 2:00 PM, the Markt will be dedicated to cultural talent from Eindhoven.

An energetic and versatile programme featuring performances by, among others, R&B artist Chanou, rapper Vinny, and drum-’n-bass MC Wolf Pax, presented by EMOVES. The Eindhoven pop centre POPEI also brings a new generation of pop musicians to the stage.

Kunstival with Iris Penning adds a unique mix of jazz, spoken word, and music to this. The music competition TROMP percussionists provide a powerful, rhythmic performance, and DJ Gerald smoothly spins the tunes throughout the afternoon. The grand finale of the evening is a performance by the Philharmonie Brainport with Björn van der Doelen and the Eindhoven experimental rock band Stuurbaard Bakkebaard.

Philharmonie Brainport with Björn van der Doelen

Joep

Peters

Natlab Outdoor Movie

SUNDAY, 30 AUGUST

Main Stage Stadhuisplein

Musical Awards: The Kick-Off

THE OPENING concludes with the most talked-about musical spectacle of the year, broadcast live on NPO 1.

More than 400 cast members perform exclusive scenes and songs from the biggest musical productions to be seen in the Netherlands this theatre season.

For musical lovers, this is the evening to be the first to catch a glimpse of what is to come.

Stage on the Market

Your World, Your Music

The Market and the Muziekgebouw Eindhoven transform into a meeting place where cultures from all over the world come together.

Eindhoven communities share their music, stories, and traditions in a colourful programme full of performances, delicious food, and activities.

A festive and connecting day, presented by Loubna Barka and Solange Rose, showcasing just how diverse and vibrant the city is.

THURSDAY 27 TO SATURDAY 29 AUGUST

17 locations in Eindhoven

Hit the City

As if there wasn’t enough to experience already, Hit The City is also taking place simultaneously.

From Thursday 27 to Saturday 29 August, the free city festival brings more than one hundred artists to seventeen locations spread throughout Eindhoven. From guitar bands and alternative rock to pop, hip hop, and electronic music: for three days, the city will be all about live music. The programme includes S10, Jonna Fraser, Typhoon, High Vis, DEADLETTER, Kevin, Lambrini Girls, Yīn Yīn, ten56., Slow Crush, MICHA, Josylvio, Jet van der Steen, Jack Shore, Elmer, and many others.

FRIDAY 28 TO SUNDAY 30 AUGUST

Museum Weekend

All museums one ticket get access to all participating museums in Eindhoven with one ticket.

This season, the exhibitions are dedicated to time and time travel: from heritage sites and forgotten stories to future visions and technological dreams.

Stroll right through the city and discover the Van Abbemuseum, Next Nature Museum, Philips Museum, DAF Museum, MU HybridArt House, and Museumpark VONK. Wherever you start, the same ticket grants access to all participating locations.

THE OPENING CULTURE 26/27

Rapper Vinny

Musical Awards - The kick-off

Phil Mob of PhilZuid

Next Nature Museum

THE OPENING

Plan your route

In addition to the stages on Stadhuisplein and the Markt, these are the locations for THE OPENING

Altstad

CKE

DAF Museum

Bibliotheek Eindhoven

De Fabriek Eindhoven

De Ontdekfabriek

Designhuis

Dynamo Eindhoven

Foundation We Are

Kazerne

LAB-1

MU Hybrid Art House

Museumpark VONK

Muziekgebouw Eindhoven

Natlab Eindhoven

Next Nature Museum

Onomatopee

Parktheater Eindhoven

Pennings Foundation

Philips Museum

Salon Veneman

Sectie-C

TAC

United Cowboys

Van Abbehuis

Van Abbemuseum

Volksuniversiteit regio Eindhoven

Furthermore, these organisations are also providing the programme for THE OPENING:

Baltan Laboratories x Live Coding Community

Eindhoven

BROET

Carte Blanche

Collaboration O

Da Trash Club x Kazerne

Foundation

Dutch Design Foundation

Eindhovense Korenfederatie

EMOVES

Kunstival

Make Eindhoven

Oortwolk

Philharmonie Brainport

PhilZuid

POPEI

Stichting Storioni Festival

The Ruggeds

TROMP Percussion

Watershed

We are Playgrounds

Phil Mob Parktheater: Stef Bos

Parktheater Lab 1

Muziekgebouw Eindoven Iris Penning Carte Blanche

I work at a supermarket and regularly hear my boss say that we need people to stock shelves. Then he says: ‘We need strong men.’ A typical remark you hear quite often. But every time I hear it, I ask myself the same question: what do you mean by saying a man is automatically stronger than a woman? Of course, this can be partly explained biologically, but there are also plenty of women who can do the same things as a man and yet are not seen.

These are small things, but it is precisely these small things that show that the problem hasn’t completely gone away yet. Without anyone really realizing it, women are still seen as less suitable. As if our capabilities are already fixed before we have even shown anything. What bothers me most about that is that it seems so normal. Many people don’t even think about it anymore. But when I heard that remark, it felt irritating and, frankly, a bit strange that such ideas still exist.

Of course, many things have improved. Today, women have the daily rights that used to be hard fought for. We can go to school, work, and make our own choices.

As long as women are still automatically pigeonholed, it is clear: we are not there yet. After all, emancipation is not just about laws and rules. It is also about how we view each other.

SENA ŞIMŞEK

JOANA VOOST (18) & SENA ŞIMŞEK (19) ARE DOING AN INTERNSHIP AT THE PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOP, SOCIAL IMPACT (PWMI). THIS IS A COLLABORATION BETWEEN SUMMA SOCIALWORK, FONTYS SOCIAL WORK, AND APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY. THEY ARE WORKING ON A CONCRETE INTERNSHIP ASSIGNMENT FROM A SOCIAL ORGANISATION. THEY SUBMITTED THIS COLUMN TO REPLACE EINDLESS COLUMNIST LOUBNA BAKRA’S SPOT.

Loubna Bakra:

‘How much longer is feminism needed?’

In my meeting with Joana and Sena, who wrote a dual column for Eindless Jong about feminism, I was moved by their commitment and conviction. It is inspiring to see how young women speak out about equality and the challenges they still face. At the same time, this raises the question for me as to why this struggle is still so necessary after generations of progress. Although many rights have been gained, we see daily how inequality manifests itself in new and sometimes subtle ways. Sena and Joana show that the issues of their generation are different from those of earlier feminists, for example due to the influence of social media and online threats. Their contribution confirms for me that feminism is not a finished battle, but a conversation that every generation must have anew. Precisely because young people like Joana and Sena speak out, there remains room for further change and progress.

COLUMN JOANA & SENA

Soft landing

Eindhoven Airport is the gateway to the Brainport region. With direct connections to and from London, Alicante, Budapest and other destinations, the airport brings people closer together for holidays, work or family visits.

What remains is that very first impression: the airport is Brabant hospitable and welcomes passengers with an organised service and good connections. This is where your journey begins. Will you join us?

‘The world has become my home’

‘Looking forward to discovering Italy together’

Arrival from Lissabon

Martijn van Doorn

Age 36 jaar Nationality Nederlands

Martijn is an entrepreneur who rarely stays in the same place for more than a few weeks. With companies in Panama, Rotterdam, and Abu Dhabi, he calls himself a homeless entrepreneur. ‘Not because I don’t have a home, but because the world has become my home.’

He landed this morning from Lisbon, after a visit to two colleagues from Brabant. On Friday, he is leaving for Singapore, after which China is on the schedule. ‘I am always on the move. On my way to colleagues, clients, and new opportunities. Travelling is part of my work, but also part of who I am.’ ‘I find it interesting to get to know other cultures, taste local food, and see how people do business in different parts of the world.’

In 2014, he founded a digital marketing agency. Now, thirty people from twelve countries work for the company. ‘The idea that you can earn money and travel online has never left me.’ Martijn’s international life began at a young age. ‘My parents took me to countries like Morocco and Namibia. At the same time, I was very busy with computers and technology. When I saw how big and diverse the world was, I knew I didn’t want to stay in one place.’

Martijn van Doorn is an entrepreneur

Direct connections, close to home

Departure to Pisa

Karan

Age 29 jaar • Nationality Indias

Together with his brother and parents, Karan is leaving for a four-day trip to Pisa. He has been living in Amsterdam for four years now, and he knows Eindhoven well too. ‘I met friends here through my professional network. My friends took me to Carnival, but also to nice restaurants in the city and the parks to walk and relax in. Eindhoven feels very different from Amsterdam. There, the streets are often narrow, busy, and old. Here, everything is laid out more broadly, and there are far fewer tourists. It really feels like a different city.’

Karan likes the international atmosphere in the Netherlands. ‘Almost everyone speaks English, so I make contact easily, and the people are very helpful.’ The greenery also stands out. ‘I bought a bike and enjoy exploring the city with it.’

For his parents, it is their third visit to the Netherlands. They enjoy coming to the Netherlands. They look forward to discovering Italy together for a few days.

Karan works at an online tourism platform and lives in Amsterdam

Eindhoven Airport has 7 million passengers per year, which is an average of more than 18,000 arriving and departing people every day. 53% of them travel on a holiday or a city trip, 33% visit family and/or friends and 14% make a business trip. However short their visit may be the airport strengthens the growth of the region for settling, for living and working, and in economic terms.

AGENDA

This summer, there is plenty to experience in the city in terms of music, theater, dance, exhibitions, and events. Are you coming too?

Stay on, go out!

Open Day 2026

The new 26/27 theater season is traditionally kicked off with the most fun open day of the year!

In all the halls of the Parktheater and on the lawn, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, you will be treated to free sneak previews, tours, performances, and fun surprises.

The full program can be viewed on parktheater.nl and in the app of DE OPENING.

ALL THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NEW THEATRE SEASON AT PARKTHEATER

Theatre that takes you along.

Theatre is more than a moment. It is an experience that stays with you, an emotion that touches you, and a memory that lingers for a long time. At the Parktheater, you experience special moments together: a laugh that still echoes, a story that moves you, or an evening you won’t soon forget. From musicals to cabaret and from youth theatre to concerts: theatre surprises, connects, and stays with you. You choose, you watch, and you feel. Discover the full new program at parktheater.nl

National Children’s Theatre Week

During this Theatre Week, the Parktheater is all about play, discovery, and wonder. During this period, the theatre opens its doors to all children and organizes extra free activities especially for children aged 2 to 12, both on and off-stage. The program features fun family shows such as Aladdin The Musical, Anansi the Spider and the Greedy Tiger, Alice in Wonderland and The 78-Story Crazy Treehouse. This year, you can also come and enjoy a bite to eat in the theatre. There is something special to experience for every age: from the very little ones to the somewhat older children. It will be one big party!

Recognition and quality

This season, too, the Parktheater welcomes big names from the theater world once again. Sometimes you know it immediately: this is going to be a wonderful evening. Cabaret performers who effortlessly make the audience roar with laughter, musicians who take you along from the very first note, and famous actors known for their impressive roles. The recognition makes it extra special to see them live.Enjoy Waylon with Time Jumper or Stef Bos with Landverhuizers, laugh along with Rayen Panday in Grip, experience Rundfunk with Wagyu and discover Eigenlijk with, among others, Viggo Waas. Experience for yourself why these artists are among the audience favorites of the theater.

SEASON 26/27

Enjoy dance, music and cabaret

A performance doesn’t have to be grand to make an impression. Especially in intimate performances, music, dance, and cabaret are given the space to get close. It is the small gestures, beautiful stories, and special moments that allow you to enjoy in silence. Take the time to slow down and immerse yourself in a special theater experience.

Let yourself be carried away by Herman van Veen with Vandaag, experience the impressive dance of NDT 1 with Out of the stillness, experience the fantasy world of Jakop Ahlbom with A Fine Mess and listen to the personal stories of Rob Kemps in Laat me niet alleen.

Rhapsody in Blue and Petrushka

Philzuid concludes the season with Stravinsky’s masterful Petrushka and a spectacular guest appearance by pianist Alexandre Tharaud in Gershwin’s swinging Rhapsody in Blue. Petrushka is a sparkling orchestral work that continues to amaze with its rich rhythm and melodic inventiveness. Stravinsky wrote the work for the famous Ballets Russes in 1911. After the success of The Firebird, impresario Sergei Diaghilev aimed for a quick sequel. Stravinsky succeeded with flying colors; danceable rhythms and popular folk tunes tumble over each other at breakneck speed. In this extra-dynamic version, Stravinsky gives full scope to the piano and percussion. Chief Conductor Duncan Ward and Philzuid know exactly how to handle this. French master pianist Alexandre Tharaud is a guest to give the enchanting crossover concerto new spirit with his insightful playing.

SEASON 26/27

Choose to see differently

Sometimes you want to be surprised. Performances that shift your perspective, make you think, or take you to worlds you didn’t know yet. Makers who push boundaries, experiment with form and content, and challenge you to look differently. Not always predictable, but special precisely because of it.

Be inspired by Het Zuidelijk Toneel with I Like Art and Art Likes Me, discover the powerful story of Club Lam with Dolle Mina and experience De Warme Winkel with R2D2_or_not_2B2. For everyone who is curious about new perspectives and extraordinary theatre makers.

Join Eindhoven’s largest orchestra, the Philmob KKL

5 years of Philmob! The Philmob XXL descends upon Stadhuisplein in Eindhoven. A large open-air concert where music and meeting come together.

So: musicians from the south, join the largest Philmob ever with more than 500 participants! You will play together with the professionals from Philzuid and participants from the entire southern region. This is how we show in Eindhoven how music lives and connects.

In addition to this anniversary, Philmob is part of THE OPENING. On the last weekend of August, the city forms the backdrop for the kick-off of the national cultural season. Philzuid contributes to this festive weekend at several moments. This 5th edition will be conducted by chief conductor Duncan Ward. Join in or come listen and discover how classical music comes to life outside the concert hall. Register via: philzuid.nl/philmob5

PARKTHEATER EINDHOVEN

PARKTHEATER

THE OPENING

‘A concert hall only belongs to everyone when everyone recognizes themselves in it’

From August 28 to 30, Eindhoven will be all about The Opening, the national kick-off of the new cultural season. As the host city, Eindhoven welcomes thousands of visitors for a weekend full of art, culture, and encounters. Muziekgebouw Eindhoven is also opening its doors with a programme that demonstrates what the organisation stands for today: accessibility, connections, and talent development between people and cultures. In conversation with Jessica Dassen, we discover how The Opening aligns perfectly with the path Muziekgebouw Eindhoven has taken in recent years.

For those who think that a concert hall is primarily about classical music, plush seats, and a night out, Jessica Dassen, Head of Cultural and Business Activities at Muziekgebouw Eindhoven, has a surprising message. ‘That’s all part of it,’ she says with a laugh. ‘But when you walk through Eindhoven, you see a city that is much bigger and more colourful than that. Then, as a cultural institution, you must dare to ask the question: who are we not seeing in our halls yet?’

Preparations for De Opening are already in full swing. At the end of August, Eindhoven will be the host city for the national kick-off of the new cultural season 2026/2027. For three days, the city will transform into one large stage for art, culture, and encounters. Muziekgebouw Eindhoven plays a prominent role in this with a programme that shows, perhaps better than ever, where the building has grown in recent years.

‘For us, De Opening is not just a festival weekend,’ Dassen explains. ‘It is actually a celebration of a journey that we as a team have been making for years.’

From programming for to programming with That journey began with a simple observation: ‘If you say you are there for all Eindhoven residents, then you must also ask yourself whether all Eindhoven residents experience it that way.’ Over the past few years, Muziekgebouw Eindhoven has therefore been building more inclusive programming step by step. Not simply by booking different artists, but by actively involving communities in creating programmes. ‘That is perhaps the most important difference,’ says Dassen. ‘We do not programme for a community, but with a community.’ This led to festivals such as Witaj Eindhoven, Merhaba Eindhoven, and recently BladiFestival. Initiatives in which Polish, Turkish, and Moroccan Eindhoven residents, respectively, are not only visitors but co-creators. The festival programme is developed for and by the community. ‘The success of this does not lie in our building. The success lies in the people who have contributed their network, their stories, their energy, and their trust. Without them, these festivals would never have become what they are today. I am incredibly proud of that. But I am at least as proud of the team at Muziekgebouw Eindhoven. This is not a one-department project. From technical to marketing, from production to hospitality: everyone helped build this.’

The Opening on Sunday: Eindhoven in one building

That idea is perhaps most strongly reflected on the Sunday of The Opening. Under the banner Your World, Your Music, that day is entirely dedicated to Eindhoven’s international communities. The building transforms into a meeting place where cultures not only showcase each other but also celebrate. ‘If you wanted to summarise Eindhoven in one building, this would be that day.’

‘The most striking element? The Latin American community brings its culture to Muziekgebouw Eindhoven under the banner Hola Eindhoven. ‘Nineteen countries. Nineteen stories. Nineteen cuisines, music styles, and traditions.’ Jessica smiles.

‘I think visitors are going to see a lot of colour, above all. And a lot of food.’ But behind the celebration lies a deeper message as well: ‘What we want to show is that culture is not something you consume. Culture is you. And how much more beautiful it becomes when you let those different stories co-exist.’

Saturday: investing in tomorrow

While Sunday revolves around communities, the Saturday of De Opening is dedicated to talent development and the future. It is not without reason that the programme is titled ‘Your Talent, Your Future’.

‘As a cultural institution, you must think ahead. Not just about next season, but about the next generation. That means investing in education, young people, and new creators. But also, in people who may never have seen the inside of a classical concert hall.

‘Accessibility is not just about ticket prices. It is also about removing barriers,’ says Dassen. That is why visitors can join a short introduction to Vivaldi’s Four Seasons every hour on Saturday. Not a complicated music history lesson, but a fun way to discover what you are listening to. And anyone who has subsequently become curious can join a Candlelight Concert in the evening.

Ultimately, it is about encounter

As the conversation draws to a close, Dassen returns one last time to what drives her personally. Not an artist or a concert, but encounter. ‘The most beautiful moment is not just when a venue is sold out. It is when someone says: I didn’t know this was for me too. If we can convey that feeling to thousands of visitors during The Opening, then our weekend is a success.’

And perhaps that is ultimately exactly what Muziekgebouw Eindhoven has been building over the past few years: not just a place where music is heard, but a place where an entire city can recognise itself.

The Opening simultaneously marks the kick-off of a new cultural season at Muziekgebouw Eindhoven. Over the coming months, numerous concerts and events are once again on the programme, ranging from pop and jazz to classical, global, and more. An invitation to every resident of Eindhoven to discover something new.

Jessica Dassen

View the full line-up at hitthecityfestival.nl THU 27, FRI 28, SAT29 AUGUST

17 LOCATIONS IN EINDHOVEN | FREE | MUSIC FESTIVAL

HIT THE CITY

As summer slowly draws to a close, the free music festival Hit The City gives you one last reason to celebrate Eindhoven together: three days, over 100 artists, and seventeen locations spread throughout the city.

From guitar bands to pop, hip-hop, DJs, and everything in between. No expensive tickets, but an accessible way to discover new music, see your favorite artists, and meet like-minded people in your own city. From August 27 to 29, you can see, among others: S10, Jonna Fraser, Typhoon, High Vis, DEADLETTER, Kevin, Lambrini Girls, Yin Yin, ten56., Slow Crush, MICHA, Josylvio, Jet van der Steen, Jack Shore, Elmer, and many more!

Bekijk de hele line-up op hitthecityfestival.nl

Free festival with Typhoon & many others!

THE OPENING

Since 2023, THE OPENING has replaced the Uitmarkt and marks the start of the cultural season. Eindhoven is the host city this year from August 28 to 30. Download the app for THE OPENING to view Eindhoven’s entire program.

The Parktheater during THE OPENING

During THE OPENING, the Parktheater is buzzing with activity. On Saturday, August 29, you can attend the live broadcast of Spijkers met Koppen, and in the evening, Stef Bos presents an exclusive show called Landverhuizers. On Sunday, August 30, we kick off the new theater season with a festive Open Day full of free sneak previews and surprises.

Arthouse United-C during THE OPENING

United Cowboys opens the doors of its Art House during THE OPENING. The building is freely accessible on Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM; visitors get a behind-the-scenes look, discover unexpected spots within the building, and see a unique program. Additionally, there will be performances on Saturday evening from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

This looks ahead to the second edition of WHAT UC IS WHAT YOU GET – the collaboration between United Cowboys and Natlab – to the in-house curated quarterly event Seasoning, and to the contribution of the Art House as an official venue during DDW 2026.

CALL TO ACTION!

NOMINATIONS CAN BE SUBMITTED UNTIL JULY 21. CULTUUR EINDHOVEN

Call for Nomination!

It is once again possible to nominate your favorite cultural creator or organization for the Eindhoven Culture Prize 2026. You can nominate in three categories: Organizational Appreciation Prize, Individual Appreciation Prize, and the Incentive Prize. You can submit your nominations via the website eindhovenculturalawards. com. Tell your story, film it, make a collage, or write down why you think your choice should win the Eindhoven Culture Prize. You have until July 21 to do so.

Nominate

It is possible to nominate your favorite in three different categories: the Incentive and Appreciation Prize for an organization and an individual. The Appreciation Prize is awarded to an individual and organization with a demonstrable track record. Which organization has managed to surprise and move you and is of exceptional added value to this city? Who or which creator is indispensable to cultural Eindhoven? Let us know by submitting your nomination via Eindhoven Cultural Awards and selecting the category Appreciation Award - Individual and/or Appreciation Award - Organization.

Has the party you wish to nominate existed for less than five years and is it a particularly promising force for culture in Eindhoven? Then nominate the party in question for the Stimulation Award. Ensure that you always include a motivation; otherwise,

your nomination will not be considered. The motivation is free in format and may include images, sound, or text.

About the Eindhoven Culture Prize

The Eindhoven Culture Prize is being awarded for the tenth time this year. The shortlist will be announced in September, featuring three nominees per category. The final winners will be chosen by a jury consisting of: Yasin Torunoglu (chairperson), Leontine Heuvelmans, Nicky Kouwenberg, Iris Penning, and Erwin Thomasse (winner of the Individual Appreciation Award last year).

The awards will be presented on Wednesday, October 14, during a festive event at DomusDela. www.cultuureindhoven.nl/eindhoven-cultuurprijs

FROM JULY 1

Discover the new course program

From July 1, all new courses for 2026-2027 will be online. An early bird discount of 5% applies throughout the entire month of July

Develop your creative talents, work on your personal development, delve into philosophy, art, and classical music, or choose from no fewer than 22 different languages:

Arabic Koreaans

Arabic Korean

Chinese Latin

German Dutch (NT2)

English Dutch with gestures

French Moroccan

Arabic Persian (Farsi)

Portuguese Modern Greek

Romanian Classical

Greek Russian

Hungarian Spanish

Italian Indonesian

Japanese Turki

MONTHLY PROGRAM

Let’s prototype the future together!

Every last Thursday of the month (except July and December), the EHV Innovation Café bubbles and buzzes with ideas, with technology and design as the driving force for a more sustainable world. After all, where better to do that than in Eindhoven—the city to prototype the future? Join in, think, and talk!

In an open, informal atmosphere, we share knowledge, network, and vision: we Give-to-Grow. For both locals and internationals; Tech and Design students, makers, inventors, entrepreneurs, and researchers. Young and old, everyone is welcome.

17:30 Walk-in and Networking

18:00 Introduction of Special Guests, followed by a moderated Q&A

19:00 Networking

Spoken in English. Check the program and subscribe to the newsletter at ehvinnovationcafe.org

Information Evenings

Come and meet us without obligation and determine your entry level with our enthusiastic and expert teachers at our Information Evenings. Registration is not required.

• Valkenswaard Tue Sept 1, 19:00 - 20:30, Library, De Hofnar 12

• Veldhoven Wed Sept 2, 19:00 - 20:30, Library, Meiveld 2

• Eindhoven language courses only, Thu Sept 3, 19:00 - 20:30, International School Eindhoven (ISE), Oirschotsedijk 14B

View the full range of courses and register from July 1 via www.vu-eindhoven.nl

Not in the mood for a standard weekend, but looking for culture and inspiring people around you? During the last weekend of August, Eindhoven is the place to be! This year, Eindhoven is the official host city for THE OPENING: the big, free-to-attend festival celebrating the national start of the cultural season.

As a successor to the iconic Uitmarkt, the entire city will be dedicated to culture that weekend, and the Eindhoven Library is pulling out all the stops with a packed program.

On Friday evening, August 28 (7:00 PM - 10:00 PM), we kick off with an evening entirely dedicated to meeting and discovering. The atmosphere is relaxed, and there is plenty you can spontaneously join in on. Unleash your creativity in the Makerspace, discover the power of language and words during surprising activities, or join in for a fun strategic board game with fellow residents.

On Saturday afternoon, August 29 (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM), the library will truly be buzzing. This is the afternoon to step completely outside your own bubble. You can participate in inspiring mini-workshops to get acquainted with new cultural themes. In addition, we are organizing special ‘speed dates’ with our various book clubs. Whether you love Young Adult, classics, or the Silent Book Club;

MULTIPLE DATES

Will you walk with us?

Walking together with grief and memories

Loss is part of life, but coping with grief is often a lonely journey. During the ‘Will you walk with us?’ walk, we offer a safe space with room for loss, remembrance, and a good conversation in nature. Whether you have lost someone recently or a long time ago: everyone is welcome. Guided by experienced grief counselors, we walk for a maximum of one hour at a relaxed pace. You share only what you wish; walking in silence is also permitted. Afterwards, we conclude together with a cup of coffee or tea. The walks take place this summer on various dates and locations in the region (Eindhoven and Waalre). This initiative is part of Rondom Rouw, through which the Eindhoven Region Library offers a place to explore together what grief means.

Bekijk alle activiteiten via bibliotheekeindhoven.nl of scan de QR-code.

this is the perfect opportunity to discover, in an accessible way, which reading group suits you best.

Whether you come for the social atmosphere, to learn something new, or to meet like-minded people: the library is there for you. Admission is completely free for all ages, and you do not need to reserve a ticket in advance. So be sure to stop by this weekend and let yourself be surprised!

Dive into a wonderful summer of books with the library!

Whether you choose a sunny beach, an active holiday in the mountains, or a relaxed backyard: a good book should not be missing from your suitcase this summer. At the Eindhoven Region Library, you are guaranteed to find the best titles to unwind with during your vacation. And the way you prefer to read is entirely up to you! Do you prefer the familiar scent of a real physical book, or would you rather travel light? Then borrow an e-reader from the library, or discover the huge selection of the Online Library full of e-books and audiobooks for your own phone or tablet. So stop by quickly before you leave and take your favorite stories with you on your journey!

Meer info: www.dbre.nl/collectie/inspiratie

TUE 7 JULY THE EINDHOVEN LIBRARY | 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM | LECTURE

Celebrate the Day of the Soft G!

When you hear the soft g, you know immediately: that’s one from around here! On the national Day of the Soft G, the Eindhoven Library puts our regional pride and sense of Brabant identity in the spotlight. Eindhoven linguist Dr. Kristel Doreleijers will take you into the world of her brand-new book Superbrabants. For although the traditional dialect is partly disappearing, young people are embracing the local language in surprising new ways. Afterwards, you can enjoy a chat and have your book signed. So be sure to stop by and join the conversation about the future of our language!

Meer info: eindhoven.op-shop.nl

AGENDA

Eindhoven Library

FRI JULY 3 7:30 PM | CREATIVE

Getting to work in the MakersPlaats

Eindhoven Library

FRI JULY 3 7:30 PM | BOOK CLUB

Just Another Book Club

Eindhoven Library

TUE JULY 7 7:30 PM | LECTURE

Day of the soft ‘G’: Superbrabants by Kristel Doreleijers

Joe Mann Pavilion

SUN JULY 12 11:00 AM | MEETING

Will you join us?

Waalre Library

TUE JULY 14 10:00 AM | MEETING

Cup of Knowledge: Memory Power

Waalre Library

WED JULY 15 2:00 PM | LECTURE

Cooking with leftovers

Waalre Library

FRI JULY 17 2:00 PM | MEETING

Games afternoon

Philips de Jonghpark Pavilion

SUN AUGUST 9 11:00 AM | MEETING

Will you join us?

The Waalre Library TUE 11 AUGUST 18:30 | MEETING

Will you join us?

SAT 15 AUGUST 14:00 | LECTURE

A lifetime of reading: 110 years of the Eindhoven Region Library

EINDHOVEN & WAALRE | MEETING

Dorian

June

Ben Houdijk

Three of a Kind

Gerard, Rik & Joshua van Iersel

Three generations of Van Iersel are brought together for the first time in a major exhibition. During the summer recess, Gerard (1934), Rik (1961), and Joshua (1986) van Iersel—grandfather, father, and son—present work in a single exhibition spanning a period of over 60 years. Three of a Kind features a selection of paintings, drawings, collages, animated films, and spatial works. Attention is paid to each artist individually, but curator Rob Schoonen also searches for that famous ‘Van Iersel artist gene’. What makes this Eindhoven family so special, what are the similarities or points of contact, and where does the art of one resemble that of the other? A series of photographs by Cas van Laar of the artists in their studios is part of the exhibition. Opening: Sat 25 July 2026 15:00-17:00 For info & registration see: www.penningsfoundation.com

Pennings Foundation Open: Wed to Sat (and the last Sun of the month) from 12:00 to 17:00

Satellite presentation: Salon Veneman.

Open: Sat from 12:00 to 17:00

KAZERNE DESIGN LAB |

Kazerne Design Award 2026 nominees, and more

Tomorrow is shaped by the young talents of today. Starting in early May, the Kazerne Foundation presents the ten Kazerne Design Award 2026 nominees: Sara Ballout, Laurin Böhm, Benjamin Onno Dikmans, Valentin Dugrais, Philippe Gaud, Noam Hasak-Lowy, Aglaé Jarry Wilson, Matthijs Koerts, Gad Lomholt Nimér, and Valdís Steinarsdóttir. All are recent Design Academy Eindhoven alumni. Come take a look, come eat (on our lovely terrace!), have a drink, or even stay overnight and be inspired by the hopeful ideas of tomorrow. Kazerne-designlab.nl Daily from 12:00

Free children’s activities during the summer holidays

During the summer holidays, the Van Gogh Village Museum organizes extra activities that children can participate in for free. From making a lava lamp or your own postcard to workshops by De Ontdekfabriek and Mad Science: you won’t be bored! Every Tuesday afternoon during the summer holidays (South region), you can drop in between 12:30 and 16:30 and discover what awaits you. Before or after the activities, there is plenty to do in the museum. Children aged 17 and under always visit the Van Gogh Village Museum for free, including a free scavenger hunt and youth audio tour. In the museum garden, you will also find a life-sized board game about Vincent van Gogh.

Check all activities at vgvn.nl/agenda. Will you be joining us?

The Escaped Note (4+)

Philzuid is a versatile orchestra for everyone. We usually perform family concerts with the full orchestra, but even in smaller ensembles, we know how to enchant young listeners with beautiful music and compelling stories. In The Escaped Note, you will hear what goes into making music together. Tink, a cheerful street child who earns her pennies playing the violin, gets to play with the residents of the Music Flat. But then a note escapes, and the harmony is lost. Tink goes in search of the note in the forest of the clever squirrel, a sleepy bear, and even an angry bee colony. Will Tink find the note and can she use it to restore the harmony?

Exhibition History is My Company

On view through September 20, 2026

The exhibition by artist Danielle Lemaire is on display at Museum W. Lemaire is known for her figurative, magical, and often surreal drawings and paintings. References to the former Dutch East Indies, colonial history, and Indonesian visual culture appear regularly.

Drawing in the museum

During the summer holidays, you can get started drawing family stories. On Wednesday, July 22, August 12 & 19 at 11:15 AM, there is a special drawing workshop at Museum W. Together with an instructor, you will visit Danielle Lemaire’s exhibition, after which you will get to work bringing your own stories to life.

Weert hospitality

Museum W is located in the heart of Weert. In addition to the museum, a visit to the city center is certainly worthwhile. For shopping, but also to experience Weert hospitality. This summer you can benefit from even more advantages, because upon presentation of your museum ticket, you will receive a discount on a snack and/or drink at surrounding hospitality establishments.

‘The need for nature is Lianne Bongers

Many people know Lianne Bongers as ‘the woman of the plants’. Chances are you have already seen this cheerful, stylish woman working on green oases in offices, hospitality venues, or other indoor spaces. With her interior design agency, Studio Lime, and the Biophilic Design Academy, she has been dedicated for years to bringing nature back into our daily lives. I spoke with Lianne about her passion for biophilic design and the growing need for nature in our living environment.

Your love for nature plays an important role in your work. Where did that begin?

‘As a child, I spent a lot of my free time on and around the water. My parents had a sailing boat, and we often sailed on the Frisian lakes. I would walk through the countryside there for hours. Although I grew up as a city kid in Groningen, I felt completely at home there. That longing for nature has always inspired my designs and, over the past ten years, has grown into a real design method: biophilic design, where people’s well-being takes centre stage. How people experience a space, and how can we improve that by integrating natural elements into architecture and interior design?

Think of planting, water, organic forms, fresh air, daylight, natural colours, and materials. The goal is to restore the bond between humans and nature, so that we also start taking better care of our environment.

Have your education and work experience brought you to this point? My background is in interior design, and I have been working in this field for over twenty years now. With Studio Lime, I focused primarily on business environments. Gradually, I began to wonder why some spaces looked beautiful but didn’t feel or function well. Through biophilic design, I found a framework for something I had always intuitively felt: nature should be a fundamental part of design. Based on that conviction, I started sharing knowledge increasingly. That is how the Biophilic Design Academy eventually came into being. Eindhoven felt like a logical base, thanks to its strong focus on design, innovation, and new ways of thinking.’

Does biophilic design tap into people’s natural need to feel good in a natural environment?

‘Absolutely. People naturally have an innate connection with nature. Biophilic design helps us to experience that connection anew.’

The term is relatively young, but the idea has existed for much longer. Which historical examples appeal to you the most?

‘The term biophilic design was first used in the 1970s, so it isn’t that new anymore. You can already see the principles reflected in the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, but also in famous designs such as Falling Water by Frank Lloyd Wright. The work of Antoni Gaudí is also a beautiful example of how architecture and nature can flow into one another.’

Is there scientific evidence for the positive effects?

‘Certainly. Hundreds of studies have been conducted over the past fifty years. One of my favourites is the study by Roger Ulrich. In it, two identical hospital rooms were compared: one with a view of concrete and one with a view of greenery. Patients with a view of plants recovered on average 8.5 percent faster and needed 22 percent less pain medication.’

‘Can we say that a natural environment reduces stress and stimulates creativity?’

‘Yes. In a natural environment, the level of cortisol, our stress hormone, drops. At the same time, the production of serotonin, the happiness hormone, increases. As a result, people feel calmer, more energetic, and more creative.’

Since this year, you have also been offering English-language courses. Is international interest growing?

‘Yes, very clearly. What we are seeing is that biophilic design is evolving into a global movement. The market is growing by about 9-12% annually and is expanding into more and more countries and sectors. Because we have been receiving inquiries from abroad for some time, Englishlanguage courses were a logical next step to make our knowledge accessible to a much broader audience.’

Do you think the demand for biophilic design will continue to increase in the coming years?

‘Without a doubt. We are spending more time indoors and are facing increasing stress and environmental problems. The need for spaces that reconnect us with nature is growing. Biophilic design is not a trend, but an answer to a fundamental human need that is more relevant today than ever.’

What gives you the most satisfaction?

‘I hardly have any time to design myself anymore. The projects that come in are executed by members of my network. What I enjoy most is creating awareness. By sharing knowledge, giving lectures, and inspiring others, I can make a greater impact and contribute to a movement that reconnects people and nature.’

Does a degree in biophilic design also lead to new career opportunities?

‘For me, it started with a different way of looking at things. As I delved deeper into the subject, my work naturally shifted from designing to advising, speaking, and training. Because demand continues to grow, more opportunities are arising for professionals who know how to apply these principles in practice.’

Which Dutch buildings do you think perfectly demonstrate what biophilic design stands for?

‘A wonderful example is primary school De Verwondering in Almere, designed by ORGA Architect, one of our ambassadors. The entire school was developed according to biophilic principles. From leaf-shaped roofs and natural ventilation to bio-based materials and an outdoor classroom with chickens and rabbits. The result is remarkable: the school does not have a teacher shortage, but rather a waiting list.’

only growing’

What practical advice do you have for people who want to integrate more nature into their homes?

‘Start simple and focus not just on how something looks, but on how it feels. Add living plants, use natural materials, and let in as much daylight as possible. Open the curtains, ensure a view of greenery or the sky, and place seating areas where you can enjoy them. Even small changes can make a big difference. Additionally, consider subtle stimuli, such as fresh air, natural scents, variations in light, or the sounds of nature. It is not about adding more, but about creating moments of connection. And perhaps most importantly: choose what feels natural to you. Biophilic design works best when it is personal. So do not be guided by trends, but by what helps you feel comfortable, healthy, and connected in your own environment.’

De Volharding Windmill

175 years of history & heritage near Best

Windmills are an icon of Dutch history and culture. They were used to drain water and to grind grain and spices. Near Best, you will find such a piece of Dutch culture: the ‘De Volharding’ windmill. De Volharding dates to 1850 and is still in operation. The mill is open to visitors every Saturday. Thanks to volunteers, you can enjoy guided tours and view the products in the shop.

De Volharding was built in 1850 but burned down completely in 1884 due to a lightning strike. Therefore, Best purchased a decommissioned mill, the wooden beams of which were used to restore the attic. Thanks to dendrochronology, we now know that those beams date back to 1763.

They can still be seen, as they were preserved during the careful restoration between 2009 and 2011. Since the reopening of De Volharding in December 2011, the mill has been grinding various grains into flour. So don’t forget to take some flour home with you when you visit the mill: you will find mixes for bread, pizza, and pastries, whole wheat flour, and whole or ground oats. If you decide to visit De Volharding on a Saturday, also visit the adjacent EEHT lunchroom for a bite to eat and a cup of tea. This beautiful space is a day centre for people facing barriers to employment. As a customer, you will immediately feel the energy of the talented, dedicated, and enthusiastic EEHT team. A warm atmosphere and genuine hospitality in this quiet neighbourhood in Best, just a stone’s throw from the railway station. The lunchroom is known for its tea; various types of tea are blended with passion in the workshop.

From the mill shop

Burst your Bubble

Change does not happen overnight.

The Burst your Bubble vision on inclusion in Eindhoven

We believe that change always starts small, with a connection between you and me. Not with a policy document, not with a campaign, but with the moment when a stranger becomes a familiar face. When the neighbour who speaks a different language is suddenly just your neighbour. That moment is no coincidence. It arises when people feel seen, heard, and acknowledged. Only then can they relax, feel safe, and come into contact and action. Tension makes people small and suspicious; acknowledgment makes them broad and curious. So simple, and so difficult.

Because inclusion is not a box to tick. It is not a finished project, nor a workshop you do once. It requires attention, time, and commitment year after year. And at the same time, as a society, you cannot not work on it. Those who look away are also making a choice. The question, therefore, is not whether we build bridges between people, but how well.

That ‘how’ is what we have been tinkering with for twenty years. We believe in self-organising, in simplicity, and in self-empowerment: not thinking for people, but creating space so that they do it themselves. We are not the heroes of the story. We are allies of residents, of schools, and of municipalities, organisations, and companies that understand that true inclusion does not originate on paper but is felt between people and that feeling reaches further than you think. The power of connection extends beyond this generation. A child growing up in a neighbourhood where difference is considered normal carries that with them for life and passes it on. What we practice today, our children reap.

That is why, in Eindhoven, we are not looking at next year, but at the coming ten or twenty years. We dream of a city that does not leave connection to chance but makes it a permanent place. A city that learns in neighbourhoods, at schools, on the street how a fast-growing, super-diverse Brainport city remains socially connected.

Change does not happen overnight. But every bridge begins with a single step: from one person to another. We keep taking those steps.

‘Honestly? I thought: another one of those sessions with forced conviviality. But nothing was demanded of me. There was simply space, and precisely because of that, I said things I normally keep to myself.’

Joost, participant

‘For the first time since I moved here, I didn’t feel like a guest. I felt like a neighbour.’

Ravi, moved to Eindhoven three years ago

People from almost all over the world now live in Eindhoven. Almost half of Eindhoven’s inhabitants come from outside the Netherlands, and the city is growing faster than ever. That is wonderful and it requires something. For you build a city with bricks, but you build a society with people and people do not grow closer to one another on their own.

‘True inclusion does not arise on paper, but is felt between people’

‘I didn’t know how small my world was until I stepped out of it for a moment.

My bubble isn’t broken; it’s just got a lot bigger.’

Daan, participant

‘I’ve lived here my whole life, but I had never really talked to someone from another neighbourhood, let alone another country. Now I’m having coffee with someone I would otherwise only have greeted on the street.’

Wilma, born & raised in Eindhoven

‘At school, everyone is kind of in their own little group. Here, I was suddenly sitting next to someone who was sixty. It turned out we both liked the same music. Random, but fun.’ Imane, 16 years old

‘Het was maar één avond. Maar ik denk er weken later nog aan, en ik kijk anders naar de mensen in mijn straat.’ Fatima, deelnemer

Burst your Bubble is a Jump Movement Foundation scheme developed by Ineke Hurkmans. Eindless is an Uit in Eindhoven Foundation publication. Together they let you look at the city and its inhabitants in a new way, so that you yourself see opportunities to learn more, make contacts and contribute to an inclusive city where everyone is welcome.

COLUMN MATHILDE

Binki

It was about 14 years ago that a small, black kitten suddenly wandered into the garden. My own cats, Guus and Joost, completely ignored him. His age and appearance apparently made little impression on my four-legged friends. We occasionally had visitors in our garden from neighbourhood stray cats. I fed them and set out baskets for them to sleep in, a sort of homeless shelter for cats. They came and went, but there was no connection with the feral strays. How different things were with the little, black kitten. This little tomcat seemed to have other plans. He was shy but looked at me meaningfully with his jet-black, piercing little eyes. He also seemed to position himself increasingly strategically in the garden, for example by lying in the birdhouse and continuing to look inside. Occasionally he would try out the cat flap and even dared to put a few paws in the kitchen, but he remained wild and scared. Late summer turned into autumn, and the little black kitten, whom I had by then named Binki, kept coming. It was getting colder and wetter outside, and Binki was struggling. While Guus and Joost lay comfortably inside, warm and protected, Binki had to fend for himself outside.

‘This can’t go on like this,’ I said to myself. I decided to take Binki into the house and try to socialise him. After an ingenious capture operation, we managed to get Binki inside and get him used to the life of a (spoiled) house cat. That turned out to be quite a job, because Binki wasn’t exactly cooperative at first. I have had cats my whole life, but Binki turned out to be special. After all, he had chosen me himself, and I offered him a home. He seemed eternally grateful for that, and we developed a special bond. Sometimes he seemed to be able to read my thoughts and would seek me out when I was sad. He would also occasionally cast me a disapproving look and seem to be thinking... ‘Really, Mathilde...? Canned food from a budget brand again?’ Binki remained a wild child and got into trouble much more often than my other cats; fights with dogs and other cats, getting locked up, staying away for too long, all kinds of medical issues, and an enormous focus on food and his territory. The vet could have almost built a new practice from all the visits, hospitalisations, pills, and surgeries. In the meantime, Guus and Joost had travelled to cat heaven, and another cat joined us, Beertje.

A sweet little stray that I had picked up in the park. Binki and Beertje didn’t become best friends, but they respected each other as housemates. A month ago, Binki became very ill, so ill that treatment was no longer possible. Binki is no longer with us, and I miss him. But I am so glad that I took in the little stray from back then and that I didn’t look away. That is the life lesson I learned from Binki and pass on. If something comes your way, don’t look away, but pick it up and make something beautiful out of it! Thank you for walking into my life, Binki!

MATHILDE LAGEMAN Director & Co-owner STE Languages

‘If something comes your way, don’t look away, but pick it up and make something beautiful out of it’

April 1956 -– 12 November 2025

‘She was a mother to everyone, and she still is’

A posthumous tribute to Honorary Citizen Esra Altmis

She was a source of inspiration and trust; through her involvement with the Ik wil Foundation and Huiskamer 51, Esra Altmış managed to bring many people together. After her passing in November 2025, she was appointed the 70th Honorary Citizen of Eindhoven, the highest distinction in the city. ‘She more than deserved it,’ says her daughter Nihâl Altmiş.

Esra grew up in Bergeijk, as the eighth of twelve children. She was born on 9 April 1956, as Marie-José Sengers. Later in Turkey, she met her husband Bekir Altmış, whom she married and with whom she settled in Eindhoven. ‘After converting to Islam, she went through life as Esra. She found the warmth, hospitality, and support of Turkish culture very beautiful and wanted to be a part of it.’ Besides Nihâl, Ziya and Abdurrahman are also Esra and Bekir’s children.

Esra worked in disability care for more than twenty years. ‘She eventually stopped doing that. She dreamed of establishing a place where everyone would feel welcome and supported.’ She felt it was important that multiple organisations commit to a more inclusive Eindhoven. That dream came true. Together with Ziya Altmış and Nurşen Görgen, Esra founded Stichting Ik Wil in 2013, an initiative in Woensel for an inclusive society. Later, neighbourhood meeting place Huiskamer 51 followed, which is now called Esra Abla’s Huiskamer.

Esra became the linchpin of these locations where people come together through activities such as embroidery and games. ‘Through those encounters, she spoke with them about daily life. Nihâl explains that her mother felt it was important for people to be able to share their stories.

She also dedicated herself to combating racism, exclusion, and discrimination. Nihâl: ‘Together with my brother, she founded Connecting Eindhoven, where people of different languages, for example, received training on non-violent communication.’ Through that course, local residents learned to deal with their own identity and resistance from others.

Her effect

In the work she did for the foundations, Esra Altmış meant a great deal to the people of Eindhoven. ‘She stood up for people who were ostracised in society. People who were often not seen or heard,’ says Nihâl. Esra saw firsthand in her own family the kind of resistance the Turkish community in the Netherlands faced: ‘My mother did not grow up as a Muslim herself, and because she saw what we were going through, she felt it was important to speak out about it.’

Esra emphasised that everyone has a place in society. When an anti-Zwarte Piet demonstration in Eindhoven was met with violence in November 2018, she provided aftercare to the protesters. ‘She felt that the demonstrators needed a place to process what had happened.’

Also, during consultations with the municipality or authorities, Esra never left residents unheard. ‘She would ask people in high positions where the residents could make their voices heard. And she would say: ‘We are talking about the people, but it must be done with the people.’ In this way, according to her daughter, Esra, with her critical eye, acted as a big sister or mother figure to everyone.

A lasting sense

According to Nihâl, Esra’s sense of justice of still lives on. ‘My mother brought unconditional love with her and offered a refuge for people with her support. Always with a cup of soup, a piece of cake, and a good conversation.’ With this, she emphasises her mother’s effect on the neighbourhood residents. ‘In conversations with others, I often hear about the encounters people had with her, where she left a warm impression.’ That touches Nihâl every time. ‘Then I feel how much warmth and meaning she had for us, and how she still lives on in the people around her.’

Esra made others feel that they, too, could contribute to a more just society. ‘She showed how you could do that in simple ways, and that was her strength.’ What brings a smile to Nihâl’s face is how her mother was always full of ideas. ‘I would come home and the entire dining table would be covered with activities: a collage here, another piece of work there. She knew very well what she wanted.’

According to Nihâl, Eindhoven could certainly learn from Esra to get closer to the people as well. ‘My mother truly believed in ‘unity makes strength’, that we stand stronger together and that together is more.’ By dedicating herself to others, Esra Altmış contributed to humanity in Eindhoven. She was a mother to everyone, and she still is.

JULY & AUGUST

OVERVIEW

Podia

WED 1 JULY

Parktheater Eindhoven

20:00 • WEST SIDE STORY (until SUN 5 July)

Stadhuisplein

KETI KOTI/ KADENA KIBRA

17:00 - 23:00 | Celebration of the abolition of slavery

THU 2

Muziekgebouw Eindhoven

20:15 • Maestro Jules onthult Film music

Natlab

20:00 Cineville Previewdagen | Hundreds of Beavers

FRI 3

De Bibliotheek Eindhoven

19:30 Aan de slag in de MakersPlaats

19:30 • Just Another Book Club

Muziekgebouw Eindhoven

18:45 • Candlelight Concerts: Een tribute aan Hans Zimmer

20:15 Rhapsody in Blue en Petroesjka

21:00 • Candlelight Concerts: Coldplay vs. Ed Sheeran Natlab

20:30

• Cineville Previewdagen | Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma

18 Septemberplein Record fair

SAT 4

Genneper Hoeve

20:00 STAL | Wildpark (t/m zo 5 juli)

Muziekgebouw Eindhoven

14:15 • Young Talent Concert

Natlab

20:30 • Cineville Previewdagen | The Invite 21:00 • Cineville Previewdagen | Saccharine

SUN 5

Natlab

13:00 • Cineville Previewdagen | Below the Clouds

15:45 Cineville Previewdagen | Yellow Letters

TUE 7

Bibliotheek Eindhoven

19:30 • Dag van de zachte ‘G’: Superbrabants door Kristel Doreleijers

VAN GOGH VILLAGE MUSEUM

Icw De Ontdekfabriek and Mad Science | 12.30 and 16.30 | free entrance kids activies

WED 8

Muziekgebouw Eindhoven

20:15 • Elvis Costello & The Imposters

THU 9

Parktheater Eindhoven 17:00 Bustravel to André Rieu

SAT 11

Muziekgebouw Eindhoven

18:30 • Candlelight Concerts: Het beste van Ludovico Einaudi (also on 20:45)

SUN 12

Bibliotheek Eindhoven

11:00 Care to join the walk? Walking together with grief and memories

MON 13

Van Abbemuseum

Rondleiding voor mensen met AlzheimerOnvergetelijk Van Abbe

TUE 14

Bibliotheek Eindhoven

10:00 Kopje Kennis: Geheugenkracht

VAN GOGH VILLAGE MUSEUM

Icw De Ontdekfabriek and Mad Science | 12.30 and 16.30 | free entrance kids activies

WED 15

Bibliotheek Eindhoven

14:00 • Lecture: Cooking with leftovers

Natlab

20:00 • De Grote Natlab Filmquiz

KEVN

Losse eindjes open podium spoken word

FRI 17

De Bibliotheek Waalre 14:00 • Games afternoon

SAT 18

Wim van Doorne Muziekkiosk Rock ‘n Roll Meeting

SUN 19

Ketelhuisplein Feel Good Market

TUE 21

VAN GOGH VILLAGE MUSEUM

Icw De Ontdekfabriek and Mad Science | 12.30 and 16.30 | free entrance kids activies

12:30 • Making a kaleidoscope

WED 22

Museum W 11.15 | Sign Workshop Breng je familieverhalen tot leven

SAT 25

Stage Music Cafe

21:00 • JAZZ JamSession

TUE 28

Icw De Ontdekfabriek and Mad Science | 12.30 and 16.30 | free entrance kids activies 12:30 • Marble-effect postcard

WED 29

Natlab

21:45 • Buitenfilm | Grease

THU 30

Natlab

21:45 • Buitenfilm | How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days

FRI 31

Natlab

21:45 • Buitenfilm | Arrival

SAT 1 AUGUST

Natlab

21:45 • Outdoor Movie | N.N.B.

TUE 4

VAN GOGH VILLAGE MUSEUM

Icw De Ontdekfabriek and Mad Science | 12.30 and 16.30 | free entrance kids activies 12:30 • Making cyanotypes

WED 5

Natlab 21:30 • Outdoor Movie | Nomadland THU 6 Natlab 21:30 Outdoor Movie| N.N.B.

FRI 7

Natlab

21:30 Outdoor Movie | The Notebook

18 Septemberplein Record fair

SAT 8

Natlab

21:30 • Outdoor Movie | Raging Bull

SUN 9

Paviljoen Philips de Jonghpark 11:00 • Loop je mee?

MON 10

Dynamo

20:00 Municipal Waste SCHIZOPHRENIA

Van Abbemuseum

Rondleiding voor mensen met Alzheimer - Onvergetelijk Van Abbe

TUE 11

De Bibliotheek Waalre 18:30 • Loop je mee?

Dynamo

20:00 • LAGWAGON W/ THE VIRGINMARYS

VAN GOGH VILLAGE MUSEUM

Icw De Ontdekfabriek and Mad Science | 12.30 and 16.30 | free entrance kids activies

WED 12

Natlab

21:20 • Outdoor Movie | Maurice Museum W 11.15 | signworkshop Bring your family stories to life

THU 13 Dynamo

19:30 Dynamo Metalfest

FRI 14

21:20 • Outdoor Movie |

SAT 15 De Bibliotheek Eindhoven

14:00

• A Lifetime of Reading:

110 Years of the Eindhoven Region Library

Natlab

21:20

• Outdoor film | The Matrix

SUN 16

Ketelhuisplein

Feel Good Market

TUE 18

Icw De Ontdekfabriek and Mad Science | 12.30 and 16.30 | free entrance kids activies

12:30 • Making a lava lamp

WED 19

Natlab

21:10

• Buitenfilm | Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri Museum W 11.15 | Sign workshop Breng je familieverhalen tot leven

FRI 28 AUGUST

THU 20

Natlab

21:10 • Outdoor Movie | Sinners

FRI 21

Natlab

21:10 • Outdoor Movie | The Great Gatsby

SAT 22

Natlab

21:10 • Outdoor Movie | Skyfall

TUE 25

VAN GOGH VILLAGE MUSEUM

Icw De Ontdekfabriek and Mad Science | 12.30 and 16.30 | free entrance kids activies

WED 26

Natlab

21:00 • Outdoor Movie | Forgetting Sarah Marshall

THU 27

Diverse locaties Eindhoven Hit the City Free entrance Music Festival

Dynamo Hit the City 2026 (until sat 29 August)

Effenaar

Opening Evening Hit The City

Kazerne Design Lab

EHV Innovation Café Knowledge and network

DE OPENING

Main Stage Stadhuisplein

With Hans Klok, Philzuid, o.l.v. Duncan Ward, begeleidt gastoptredens van Fresku, Zoë Livay, de sopraan Aylin Sezer en Joël Borelli, samen met rapper Extince.

SAT 29 AUGUST

Main Stage Stadhuisplein

Morning Met o.a. Grote Kinderboeken Show met Oscar Kocken Evening Philharmonie Brainport & Friends, met o.a. Björn van der Doelen en Gerard van Maasakkers. Stage Markt

Eindhoven Next Up

Met o.a. Chanou, de rapper Vinny en drum-’n-bass-MC Wolf Pax. POPEI brengt nieuwe generatie popmuzikanten, Iris Penning, Muziekconcours TROMP, DJ Gerald

SUN 30 AUGUST

Main Stage Stadhuisplein

Musicalspektakel

Stage Markt

Your World, Your Music

Natlab

21:00 • Outdoor Movie | N.N.B.

FRI 28

Diverse locaties Eindhoven Hit the City Free music festival

Eindhoven DE OPENING of the cultural season 28 until SUN 30 augustus

Bibliotheek Eindhoven

The Library is buzzing during DE OPENING! (UNTIL SAT 29 August)

Dynamo

19:00 De Etalage: Style Warz Black Book (EXPO until SAT 29 August) HIT THE CITY 2026 W/ TEN56., SERVE, UITZENDBUREAU, HARPY & MORE

Natlab

21:00 • Outdoor Movie | Gone Girl Parktheater Eindhoven

20:00 • Mama is Boos | Esther van der Voort

Art House United Cowboys Arthouse United-C tijdens DE OPENING (until 30 august)

SAT 29

Diverse locaties Eindhoven Hit the City Free Busic Festival

Eindhoven DE OPENING of the cultural season 28 until SUN 30 augustus

Dynamo HIT THE CITY 2026 W/ SLOW CRUSH, MERYL STREEK, CLUB BRAT & MORE DE OPENING 08 W/ CLUB COMMIT

Muziekgebouw Eindhoven

18:30 • Candlelight Concerts: De vier

jaargetijden van Vivaldi

20:45 Candlelight Concerts: Queen vs. ABBA

Natlab

21:00 • Outdoor Movie | One Battle After Another

Parktheater Eindhoven

20:00 • Landverhuizers | Stef Bos en gasten

Stadhuisplein

Doe mee met het grootste orkest van Eindhoven, de Philmob XXL

SUN 30

Muziekgebouw Eindhoven

13:00 • De ontsnapte noot (4+)

Natlab

20:15 • De Grote Natlab Outdoor Movie Quiz

Parktheater Eindhoven

13:00 Open Day 2026

COVA Gallery

May I have this dance? – Bob Geerts Until FRI 31 July

Dynamo

De Etalage: Style Warz Black Book FRI 28 en SAT 29 August

Kazerne Design Lab

Van zeecontainer tot moestuin, van afval tot gouden ring Until September 2026

Genomineerden

Kazerne Design Award 2026 Until September 2026

KEVN

Repentless - Simon Schrikker Until SAT 28 JunE

Museum W

Chris Rijksmuseum Until SUN 20 september

De geschiedenis is mijn gezelschap Until SUN 20 september

I Didn’t Cross The Border, The Border Crossed Me 18 October 2026 until 14 March 2027

Onomatopee

How matter comes to matter Until SUN 30 august

Pennings Foundation Eindexpositie Fotografie SintLucas SAT 25 juni Until SAT 18 july

Three of a kind SAT 25 july Until SUN 30 August

Philips Museum Impact Through Design Until augustus 2026

Tante Netty

NederTürk Until SAT 17 april 2027

T56

vrijZicht III Until SUN 5 July

Van Abbemuseum

Make Some Noise: Desire. Stage. Change. Until SUN 20 September

Fair • Park Hilaria

From 31 July until 9 August 2026 transforms the Kennedylaan in Eindhoven into the temporary amusement park Park Hilaria.

HIT THE CITY

Van Gogh Village Museum Nuenen Van olielamp naar OLED: Licht op De aardappeleters All year round

From 27 to 29 August including, among others S10, Jonna Fraser, Typhoon, High Vis, DEADLETTER, Kevin, Lambrini Girls, Yīn Yīn, ten56., Slow Crush, MICHA, Josylvio, Jet van der steen, Jack Shore, Elmer and much more!

Two surprisingly fresh world travelers for the summer

coffee & tea

with orange, ice & a touch of tradition

This summer, espresso tonic is the favorite: a surprising combination of strong coffee, sparkling tonic, and orange flavor. The drink originated in Sweden, where baristas experimented with tonic water and espresso. What started as an accidental discovery grew into a beloved summer classic that has now conquered cafés all over the world. Or are you more in the mood for refreshing tea?

Espresso Tonic with Orange

For 1 glass

• 1 double espresso (approx. 60 ml), chilled

• 150 to 200 ml ice-cold tonic

• a few ice cubes

• 1 slice of orange or strip of orange peel

Preparation

Fill a tall glass generously with ice cubes and pour the cold tonic over them. Carefully pour in the chilled espresso, ensuring the beautiful layers remain visible. Garnish with a slice of orange.

Serve immediately!

Orange Iced Tea with Mint

From Moroccan mint tea to British iced tea: refreshing tea variations for warm days exist all over the world. This iced tea combines Earl Grey with orange & fresh mint.

For 1 liter

• 2 Earl Grey tea bags

• 750 ml hot & 250 ml cold water

• 1 orange, sliced

Tip

Add some honey if you like!

• a few sprigs of fresh mint & ice cubes

Preparation

Let the tea steep in hot water for five minutes and then remove the bags. Let cool and add the orange slices and mint along with the cold water. Refrigerate for at least an hour. Serve with ice cubes.

Tip

A floral tonic and a coffee with fruity notes create an extra refined taste experience.