Christmas may still be weeks away, but Europe's cultural calendar is already in full festive swing. This week brings a gothic retelling of a Dickens classic, the return of Irish rock legends U2, and two landmark exhibitions that explore the roots of street art and the birth of Art Nouveau.
Cinema: A darker Ebenezer
Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol has been adapted countless times, but Ti West, the American director known for his horror trilogy X, brings a fresh, darker vision. Ebenezer leans into the gothic elements of the story, with Johnny Depp as the miserly Scrooge and Ian McKellen as Bob Cratchit. The film, in cinemas from 13 November, promises a Tim Burton-esque atmosphere that signals the true start of the holiday season.
For those who prefer their festive fare with a bit more warmth, the Muppets' version remains a beloved classic. But West's take offers a compelling alternative for those who like their Christmas stories with a chill.
Music: U2's reflective return
After nearly a decade, U2 returns with their 16th studio album, Carnaval de Luz, released on 13 November. The album marks the band's 50th anniversary since forming in Dublin, and it's a fittingly mature and introspective collection of 12 tracks. A standout is the duet with the late Dolly Parton, which turned out to be her final recording. Another highlight is 'The Mirror Maker', a song about Spanish singer Rosalía that reportedly took nearly 200 takes to perfect. Producer Jacknife Lee noted the painstaking process, but the result is a track that captures the band's enduring ambition.
Exhibitions: Art Nouveau and street art
In Paris, the Petit Palais hosts Bruxelles 1900, an exhibition celebrating the birth of Art Nouveau. The movement, which began with Victor Horta's Hôtel Tassel in Brussels in 1893, spread across Europe and defined a era of design. The show features over 250 works, including paintings, furniture, and decorative arts, offering a comprehensive look at a style that still influences architecture and design today. Running from 10 November 2026 to 25 April 2027, it's a must-see for design enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, London's Saatchi Gallery unveils Beyond the Streets, a sprawling exhibition on the history of street art. From its roots in ancient Egypt to the graffiti movements of 1970s New York and Philadelphia, and its evolution in Europe through artists like Gérard Złotykamień, the show spans six decades and features over 100 artists. A highlight is a full-scale recreation of a graffitied New York subway car, complete with the sounds and smells of the city. The exhibition runs from 11 November 2026 to 5 May 2027.
Television: Rivals returns
For those seeking escapism from the darker days, the second part of Rivals is now streaming on Disney+. Based on Jilly Cooper's novel, the series follows the rivalry between former Olympian Rupert Campbell-Black and Tory politician Declan O'Hara, set against the backdrop of 1980s British television. The new episodes ramp up the drama, with a fatal car crash that unravels the characters' psyches. It's a deliciously scandalous antidote to the winter gloom.
Bonus picks
In Helsinki, the Ateneum Art Museum presents Arcana Borealis – Northern Women and Esotericism, exploring the intersection of art and mysticism. In Bremen, the Kunsthalle hosts a whimsical exhibition dedicated to dachshunds, perfect for dog lovers. And in Amsterdam, artist Mire Lee has transformed the Oude Kerk into a striking kinetic installation using steel and slimy silicone, open from 13 November.
As Europe's cultural scene heats up, these offerings provide a rich mix of nostalgia, innovation, and pure entertainment. Whether you're a fan of gothic horror, rock anthems, or avant-garde art, there's something to brighten the weeks ahead.
