This summer, Bay Area movie lovers may already be feeling the absence of San Francisco’s Sundown Cinema, the annual open-air film series that was abruptly canceled last month.
The beloved 22-year-old program was run by the nonprofit San Francisco Parks Alliance, which is currently facing an official review of its finances by city officials.
But if you’re looking to fill the Sundown Cinema-shaped hole in your heart, luckily there are other spots in the Bay Area offering ways to enjoy the movies outdoors for free this summer.
Many cities and counties are hosting their own film series in local parks and public spaces, which are generally free. Among the frequent repeats in the Bay Area outdoor movie slate this summer (with Wicked and Clueless particularly on rotation), some less expected screenings to watch for include Field of Dreams in Danville on June 27, Jack London Square’s screenings of Space Jam (July 12) and Happy Gilmore (August 2) and 10 Things I Hate About You on August 15 at San Francisco’s Chase Center.
Grab a picnic blanket and keep reading for more, including local outdoor film festivals, movies on the beach in Santa Cruz and even the old-fashioned drive-in theater. (And if you’re looking for family-friendly screenings instead? Check out our guide to Bay Area outdoor movie screenings for kids this summer.)
- Jump straight to: Where to see outdoor movie screenings in the Bay Area this summer
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 do not require a ticket or reservation, but some of the special showings at community pools 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.”
