Culture Digest: The best things to do, hear, see or watch in Europe this week
Awards season is in full swing, with the Oscars revealing their 2026 nominations and the Grammys, BRITS and BAFTAs all looming. As the cultural calendar heats up, a diverse range of events and releases are vying for attention, offering a wealth of creative experiences for audiences.
A Week of Cultural Highlights
From the return of celebrated filmmakers and musicians to poignant artistic retrospectives and vibrant festivals, this week presents a particularly rich tapestry of cultural offerings. The convergence of these events signals a dynamic moment in the arts, as established figures and emerging talents alike contribute to the ongoing conversation.
Exhibitions: Remembering the Past, Challenging the Present
Martin Parr: Global Warning
The Jeu de Paume in Paris will host “Martin Parr Global Warning” from January 30th to May 24th, 2026. This exhibition serves as a tribute to the late British photographer, Martin Parr, whose work captured the absurdities of human existence with a unique blend of kitsch and charisma. His images first gained recognition with an exhibition at the Arles festival in 1986.
R. Crumb: There’s No End to the Nonsense
The David Zwirner Gallery in London will showcase the work of American artist R. Crumb from January 29th to March 14th, 2026. Known for his subversive and satirical cartoons – including iconic creations like Fritz the Cat and Mr. Natural – Crumb challenged moral standards and helped define the underground comic book scene from the 1960s through the early 1990s. This exhibition marks a retrospective of his nearly 70-year career.
A closing highlight is the “Souvenir” exhibition at The Fitzrovia Chapel, curated by BAFTA-nominated artists and filmmakers, which concludes on February 8th, 2026.
Events: From Venetian Splendor to Charitable Action
Venice Carnival
The world-famous ‘Carnevale di Venezia’ will run from January 31st to February 17th, 2026, coinciding with Italy’s preparation to host the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Milan–Cortina. The festivities begin with a Bridgerton-themed Grand Carnival Ball in St Mark’s Square and continue with the traditional Festa Veneziana water parade along the Grand Canal.
La Traviata
The Opéra National de Bordeaux will present a new production of Giuseppe Verdi’s “La Traviata” from January 26th to February 3rd, 2026. Led by Italian conductor Tito Ceccherini and featuring Italian soprano Federica Guida in the title role, this production promises a passionate interpretation of the classic opera.
Health Workers 4 Palestine’s Seeds of Solidarity Gala & Auction
The Health Workers 4 Palestine auction, benefiting the Gaza Medics Solidarity Fund, will take place on February 1st, 2026, at The Savoy in London. The auction will feature contributions from artists including Brian Eno, Sir Antony Gormley, and Lisa Brice. Over 1,700 healthcare workers have lost their lives in Gaza, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and aid groups like Oxfam and Doctors Without Borders have faced obstacles entering Gaza.
Movies & TV: Horror Returns and Regency Romance Continues
Send Help
Sam Raimi, the legendary director of Evil Dead, returns to the horror genre with “Send Help,” releasing in cinemas on January 30th. The film stars Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien in a darkly comic story of corporate conflict and survival after a plane crash.
Also releasing on January 30th are the thriller Primate and YouTuber Markiplier’s horror film Iron Lung.
Bridgerton (Season 4)
Season four of Netflix’s popular series “Bridgerton” will be available to stream from January 29th. This season focuses on Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) and his pursuit of a mysterious woman (Yerin Ha), exploring themes of fantasy and reality within Regency-era London.
Disney+’s new miniseries ‘Wonder Man’, starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, is available from January 28th. British crime thriller ‘Steal’, featuring editor Tokunbo Salako, is also now available on Prime Video.
Music: Lana Del Rey’s Latest Offering
Lana Del Rey: Stove
Lana Del Rey’s tenth studio album, “Stove,” is set to release on January 30th. This album marks a departure from her previous work, embracing a stripped-back, country-inspired sound. It is her longest album to date, featuring 19 singles including ‘Bluebird’ and ‘Henry, come on’.
American psych rock band Blackwater Holylight releases their fourth studio album ‘Not Here Not Gone’ on January 30th.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Venice Carnival celebrating this year?
Italy’s ‘Carnevale di Venezia’ celebrates myths and sport this year as the country prepares to host the Winter Olympics and Paralympics being held in Milan–Cortina.
When does the exhibition featuring the work of R. Crumb open?
The exhibition featuring the work of R. Crumb opens on January 29th, 2026, and runs until March 14th, 2026, at the David Zwirner Gallery in London.
Who are some of the artists contributing to the Health Workers 4 Palestine auction?
Artistic contributions to the Health Workers 4 Palestine auction come from Brian Eno, Sir Antony Gormley, and Lisa Brice.
With such a diverse range of cultural experiences on offer, what event or release are you most looking forward to exploring this week?