When Does Eroski Cinema Open?
Eroski cinema typically refers to movie theaters located in shopping centers that house Eroski supermarkets, primarily Yelmo Cines at Parc Central in Tarragona. These cinemas generally open between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM on weekdays, with extended hours on weekends starting around noon for matinee showings. The exact opening time varies based on the first scheduled screening of the day.
Understanding “Cine Eroski”
The term “cine eroski” can be confusing for first-time visitors. Eroski is actually a Basque supermarket chain operating over 1,000 stores across Spain. There isn’t a cinema chain called “Eroski Cinema”—rather, the term refers to cinemas located within shopping centers that contain Eroski supermarkets.
The most prominent example is Yelmo Cines at Centro Comercial Parc Central in Tarragona. This shopping center, inaugurated in 1997, houses an Eroski supermarket along with Yelmo Cines, which features 6 modern screening rooms equipped with comfortable seating and 3D technology.
Typical Cinema Operating Hours
Spanish cinemas follow a different schedule compared to many other countries. Most theaters schedule 3-4 screenings per day at 2-3 hour intervals.
Standard Screening Times:
- First showing: 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM
- Second showing: 6:30 PM or 7:00 PM
- Third showing: 8:30 PM or 9:00 PM
- Final showing: 10:30 PM or 11:00 PM
Weekend and holiday schedules often include additional matinee screenings starting around 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM. The cinema’s doors typically open 15-30 minutes before the first scheduled screening.
Yelmo Cines Parc Central Specifics
Yelmo Cines at Parc Central operates in coordination with the shopping center’s hours. The shopping center itself maintains these schedules:
Shopping Center Hours (Parc Central):
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (winter) or 10:00 PM (summer)
- Sundays: Generally closed
- Select holidays: Open with special hours
The cinema portion begins screenings in the afternoon and continues until late evening, independent of when shops close. Cinema operations can extend beyond the shopping center’s retail hours since moviegoers access the theater through designated entrances.
How to Check Current Showtimes
The most reliable way to confirm opening hours and showtimes is through these methods:
Online Resources: Visit the official Yelmo Cines website or the Parc Central shopping center website. Both platforms display current movie listings with specific screening times.
Mobile Apps: Download the Yelmo Cines app for real-time updates on showtimes, special events, and promotional offers. The app also allows advance ticket purchases with seat selection.
Phone Inquiry: Contact Parc Central directly at 977 22 87 97 for current cinema information.
Ticket Purchase and Seating
Spanish cinemas operate differently from American or British theaters. All tickets come with assigned seating—you must choose your specific seat when purchasing tickets. This system makes arriving early less critical but requires coordination when attending with friends.
Most cinemas offer online booking through their websites or apps. Purchasing tickets in advance guarantees your preferred seating and allows you to arrive closer to showtime without missing the film.
Special Discount Days
Spanish cinemas traditionally offer reduced ticket prices on certain days:
Día del Espectador (Spectator’s Day): Typically held on Wednesdays, this promotion offers discounted tickets for all screenings. The exact discount varies by location but can reduce ticket prices by 20-30%.
MovieYelmo Card Benefits: Frequent moviegoers can register for a MovieYelmo card through the website or app. Cardholders receive discounted tickets year-round, making regular cinema visits more affordable.
Additional discounts are available for students, seniors, and children under 13 years old. Some theaters also offer “couple’s day” promotions on weekdays.
Planning Your Visit to Parc Central
The Centro Comercial Parc Central is strategically located in central Tarragona at Carrer de Vidal i Barraquer, 15-17. The complex offers over 1,000 free parking spaces, making it easily accessible by car.
Getting There: The shopping center connects to major roads leading into Tarragona, simplifying access from surrounding areas. Public transportation options include several bus lines that stop near the center.
Parking Validation: Cinema tickets include parking validation for 3 hours of free parking. Present your cinema ticket at the validation machines before leaving the parking garage.
What to Expect at Yelmo Cines
The 6 screening rooms at Yelmo Cines Parc Central feature modern amenities designed for viewer comfort. Seats are spacious with generous legroom, and select theaters include special vibrating seats synchronized with on-screen action.
Concessions: The cinema offers standard concessions including popcorn (both sweet and traditional), candy, and beverages. Interestingly, Spanish cinemas offer American-style sweet popcorn, which differs from the predominantly salty popcorn found in most Spanish concession stands.
Language Options: Most films screen in dubbed Spanish versions (marked as V.E. – versión española). However, some screenings offer original language versions with Spanish subtitles (V.O. – versión original or VOSE – versión original subtitulada en español). Check listings carefully if you prefer watching films in their original language.
Alternative Eroski Shopping Center Cinemas
While Yelmo Cines at Parc Central Tarragona is the most prominent example, other shopping centers in Spain combine Eroski supermarkets with cinema facilities:
Iruña Shopping Center (Pamplona): This center includes an Eroski supermarket along with cinema options. The facility serves the Pamplona region with similar operating schedules.
LLobregat Centre (Cornellà): Historically known as “Eroski de Cornellá,” this center was among the first to open in Catalunya. Though it has transformed into an outlet center, it maintained cinema facilities throughout its evolution.
Understanding Spanish Cinema Culture
Spanish cinema attendance patterns differ from English-speaking countries. Spaniards typically attend evening showings, with the most popular times between 8:00 PM and 11:00 PM. This late schedule aligns with Spain’s broader cultural patterns of late dining and evening socializing.
Reserved Seating Culture: The assigned seating system reflects Spanish social customs. Groups typically purchase tickets together to ensure adjacent seating. Arriving separately and hoping to sit together, as common in some countries, doesn’t work in Spanish cinemas.
Film Offerings and Programming
Spanish cinemas show a mix of Hollywood blockbusters, European films, and Spanish productions. Approximately 80% of foreign films receive Spanish dubbing, making original language screenings somewhat limited outside major cities.
Film Ratings: Spanish film classifications include “Todos los públicos” (all audiences), “No recomendada para menores de 7 años” (not recommended for under 7), and ratings for ages 12, 16, and 18.
Seasonal Variations in Cinema Hours
Cinema operating hours adjust throughout the year based on demand and shopping center schedules:
Summer Season (June – September): Extended hours accommodate tourists and longer daylight. Shopping centers remain open until 10:00 PM, and cinemas may schedule additional late-night showings.
Winter Season (October – May): Standard hours return with shopping centers closing at 9:00 PM. Cinema screenings maintain their schedule but may reduce weekend matinees during slower periods.
Holiday Periods: Christmas season and summer holidays see increased screening frequency. Parc Central opens on select Sundays during these peak periods, with cinemas operating full schedules.
Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
Arrive with Time to Spare: While assigned seating reduces the urgency, arriving 20-30 minutes early allows time for parking, ticket collection (if purchased online), and concession purchases.
Check the Version: Verify whether your selected showing is dubbed (V.E.) or original language (V.O./VOSE). This information appears in all listings but is easy to overlook.
Bring Cash and Cards: While most Spanish businesses accept cards, having small bills for parking machines or small purchases proves helpful.
Consider Weekday Visits: Wednesday discounts and generally smaller weekday crowds make midweek visits more economical and comfortable.
Beyond Cinema: Parc Central Amenities
Visiting the cinema at Parc Central offers opportunities to explore additional entertainment and dining options:
Restaurant Selection: The food court features various dining options including Lizarran, FresCo, 100 Montaditos, Udon, and La Tagliatella. This variety accommodates pre-movie meals or post-film discussions over dinner.
Shopping Opportunities: With over 100 stores ranging from fashion to technology, the center supports full-day visits combining shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Family Activities: Beyond cinema, the center offers activities suitable for all ages, making it a comprehensive family destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the first movie start at Eroski cinema?
The first screening typically begins between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM on weekdays. Weekend matinees may start as early as 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM, depending on the film and demand.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Yes, tickets are available at the box office, but purchasing online through the Yelmo Cines website or app is recommended. Online purchases allow seat selection and reduce waiting time.
Is parking free at Parc Central?
The shopping center provides free parking, and cinema tickets include validation for 3 hours. Present your ticket at validation machines before exiting the parking garage.
Are films shown in English?
Most films screen in dubbed Spanish. Original language versions with Spanish subtitles (VOSE) are available for select showings. Check the schedule specifically for V.O. or VOSE designations.
Does Yelmo Cines offer discounts?
Yes, Wednesdays typically feature reduced prices for all screenings. Additional discounts apply for students, seniors, and children. The MovieYelmo membership card provides ongoing discounts for frequent visitors.
How many screens does Yelmo Cines Parc Central have?
The cinema features 6 screening rooms, all equipped with modern sound systems, comfortable seating, and digital projection. Some rooms include special effects like vibrating seats.
Cinema at Eroski locations, particularly Yelmo Cines at Parc Central Tarragona, opens in the afternoon with first screenings around 4:00-5:00 PM, extending through late evening. The assigned seating system and integration with shopping center amenities make these theaters convenient destinations for combining shopping, dining, and entertainment in a single visit.