This summer the Bay Area will be spoiled for options when it comes to outdoor movie screenings for the kids. (iStock/Getty Images Plus)
If you’re looking for things to do with kids in the Bay Area this summer, you might be especially spoiled for outdoor family-friendly movie screenings.
Watching movies outdoors in the Bay Area: Tips for first-timers
These movies usually start just after dusk around 8:30 p.m., so audiences can see the projected screen as clearly as possible. It’s a good idea to get to the “theater” early to secure a good view of the screen. Most screenings don’t require a ticket or reservation, but some of the special showings do ask for an RSVP.
Before heading out to any show, be sure to check the weather and see if the screening will continue in the event of rain or other disruptive weather.
For the comfiest experience bring picnic blankets, a sweater and (non-crackling) snacks. A camping chair could offer you the most comfort, but be mindful you’re not blocking anyone’s view of the screen with your set-up. Remember that some venues may also discourage — or outright prohibit — pets or alcohol.
If you are seeking captions for an outdoor movie, you may need to contact the city’s parks and recreation department at least two days in advance. For example, for the Berkeley showings, contact the city at least two days before the screening at jolee@berkeleyca.gov or (510) 926-1458, and for Santa Cruz shows, call (831) 423-5590. According to the Santa Cruz Movies on the Beach website, a “limited number of assistive listening devices (ALDs) are available for check-out at the Mini Golf Kiosk inside Neptune’s Kingdom.”
Bay Area outdoor movie screenings for families this summer
Thrive City is the district surrounding the Chase Center arena in San Francisco where the film ‘Wicked’ will be screened on July 19. (San Francisco Chronicle/Hearst Newspapers via Getty Images)
Finding Dory: July 18 at West Campus Pool (registration required)
IF: July 25, Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck Avenue
Despicable Me 4: Aug. 8, Cedar Rose Park
Sonic the Hedgehog 3: Aug. 22, Grove Park
Wicked: Sept. 5, Willard Park
Inside Out 2: Sept. 12, Codornices Park,
East Bay: Oakland
Oakland offers its Waterfront Flicks series in Jack London Square from July 12 to August 16, including classics like Space Jam:
Space Jam: July 12
The Princess and The Frog: July 19
Minions: July 26
Despicable Me 4: August 9
East Bay: Alameda
Alameda Parks and Recreation Department is hosting six children’s movies outdoors this summer — all of them free except for a showing of the seminal Sky High ticketed at $15 per person:
Despicable Me 4: July 27
Sky High: July 18
The Wild Robot: July 25
Mufasa: The Lion King: Aug. 22
Sonic the Hedgehog 3: Sept. 26
East Bay: Antioch
Antioch is organizing several free movie screenings in July. A food truck will also be available, as well as first-come, first-served popcorn and refreshments.
Moana 2: July 10
A Goofy Movie: July 17
The Parent Trap (1998): July 24
Holes: July 31
More East Bay outdoor movie screenings for families this summer
Santa Rosa’s Howarth Park will host five Friday night outdoor movies for children from August 15 to September 12, with films still to be announced. You’ll also find food vendors and pre-movie activities for kids.
