“Cinema Barch-in” returns for its fifth consecutive year, marking a unique cultural highlight in Italy as the first boat drive-in. This year’s event is set to take place from Sunday, 7 July to Sunday, 14 July 2024, at the historic Arsenale of Venice. The initiative, supported by the Municipality of Venice, Vela, and Marina Militare, was conceived by architects Nicola Scopelliti, Caterina Groli, and Silvia Rasia, who identified the Arsenale as the ideal venue. This protected basin with calm waters, rich in history and charm, offers a perfect setting for the event. Despite being open to the public, the Arsenale remains a lesser-known gem awaiting rediscovery.
The film and music programming is once again curated by the FEMS du cinéma cultural association, led by founders Maria Parisi and Eleonora Arena. The event promises a week of open-air cinema evenings featuring an array of live guests, music, comedy, and engaging presenters. The lineup includes films, documentaries, animations, and short films across a variety of styles and genres, all connected by this year’s theme, “Traveling with Marco Polo”.
In true drive-in fashion, attendees can enjoy the unique experience of watching movies from their boats while ordering aperitifs and dinner directly onboard. This innovative format combines the nostalgia of drive-in cinemas with the serene beauty of Venice’s waters, creating an unforgettable experience. “Cinema Barch-in” is more than just a film festival; it’s a celebration of culture, history, and community, offering a delightful way to explore Venice’s enchanting maritime heritage.
Website: www.cinemabarchin.com
Location: Arsenale, Venice
Schedule: July 7 -14, 2024