Where to watch FREE outdoor movies in Metro Vancouver this summer

There are plenty of fun activities in Metro Vancouver to take advantage of this summer, and outdoor movies are one of our favourites.

Whether you’re looking for comedy, action, or a thriller, you’re sure to find something to watch in several cities in the Lower Mainland. So grab a blanket, popcorn, and some friends to join you.

Here’s a checklist of the recurring events where you can watch outdoor movies this summer. We’ll update it as more are announced!

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Evo Summer Cinema Series at Stanley Park

Fresh Air Cinema (Outdoor Movies BC/Facebook)

What: Hundreds of people will gather every Tuesday from July 9 to August 27 for Canada’s largest outdoor movies series. You can watch a curated lineup of Hollywood hits and family favourites on the giant 40-foot inflatable movie screen.

When: Every Tuesday from July 9 to August 27, 2024
Time: 8 to 11 pm; screenings begin a little after sunset
Where: Ceperley Meadows beside the Second Beach pool – 8501 Stanley Park Drive, Vancouver
Cost: Free

Deckchair Cinema at The Polygon Gallery

What: The Polygon Gallery has announced the return of Deckchair Cinema starting on Thursday, June 27, on Lower Lonsdale’s waterfront deck.

Hosted in partnership with the City of North Vancouver and presenting sponsor Rogers Communication, the open-air film series will feature music and entertainment, an artisan market, and drinks from local wineries and breweries.

When: Every Thursday until August 29, 2024
Time: Music and concession open at 7 pm, screenings begin at sundown
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: By donation

Vancouver Civic Theatre’s Sunset Cinema

What: Movie lovers are invited to šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn (formerly QET Plaza) outside the Queen Elizabeth Theatre on select Wednesdays in August for a variety of great outdoor films.

Bring a chair or a blanket and pillows to sit on and enjoy Barbie on August 7, E.T.: The Extraterrestrial on August 14, The Fall Guy on August 21, and Wonka on August 28.

When: August 7, 14, 21 and 28, 2024
Time: Films begins at sunset
Where: šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn (formerly QET Plaza) outside the Queen Elizabeth Theatre – 630 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
Cost: Free

Summer Movie Nights on the Square

Summer Movie Nights (Downtown Van/Submitted)

What: Every Thursday evening until August 15, Downtown Van will inflate a large 16-foot screen at the north plaza of the Vancouver Art Gallery for family-friendly Summer Movie Nights.

This summertime tradition will see a massive crowd of moviegoers watch their favourite flicks under the stars, and there will be plenty of fun before the screening starts.

M&M will even be there for a special event on July 18, which includes free giveaways.

When: Every Thursday until August 15, 2024
Time: Activations start at 5 pm; movies start at dusk
Where: šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square – 850 W Georgia Street, Vancouver
Cost: Free

Summer Cinema in Burnaby

What: A long-running fresh-air film series is returning to Burnaby this summer, and it’s packed with favourites the whole family can enjoy.

The fun kicks off with Mean Girls on August 2 at Confederation Park. Then make plans to check out other family-friendly flicks at Civic Square on August 16, 23 and 30.

When: August 2, 16, 23 and 30, 2024
Time: 8:15 pm
Where: Civic Square by Bob Prittie Library – 6100 Willingdon Avenue, Burnaby (except August 2, which is at Confederation Square — 250 Willingdone Ave, Burnaby)
Cost: Free

Sunset Cinema in North Vancouver

What: Movie nights are some of the best times we get to spend with family, and this summer, you can enjoy some of your favourites outdoors on the North Shore for free. The City of North Vancouver is bringing back Sunset Cinema to The Shipyards every Wednesday from July 31 to August 28. Films include The Princess Bride, Finding Nemo, and Top Gun: Maverick.

Additional movie nights will be held at Civic Plaza on July 12 and 26 and at Ray Perrault Park on August 9.

When: Every Wednesday from July 31 to August 28, 2024
Time: 8:30 pm
Where: The Shipyards – 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free

Movies Under the Stars in Surrey

Movie Under The Stars/Downtown Surrey BIA

What: Movies Under the Stars, hosted by the Downtown Surrey Business Improvement Association and presented by PCI, is screening family-friendly films on three Saturdays in August.

Pack your blankets and chairs, and arrive at Holland Park early to stake out your favourite spot. Plus, there will be activities and live entertainment starting at 6 pm each movie night.

When: August 3, 10 and 17, 2024
Time: Pre-film activities begin at 6 pm, movie begins at dusk
Where: Holland Park – 13428 Old Yale Road, Surrey
Cost: Free

Cinema under the Stars in Port Coquitlam

What: Port Coquitlam is transforming Evergreen Park into an outdoor theatre in July and August. Bring the family to enjoy all-ages faves like The Marvels and The Garfield Movie on a giant silver screen.

When: July 13 and 27, August 11 and 25, 2024
Time: 9:15 pm (July 13), 8:45 pm (July 27, August 11 and 25)
Where: Evergreen Park, Port Coquitlam
Cost: Free

There are also several ticketed outdoor movie nights that you should keep on your radar. They include:

Dive-In Movie Nights in Township of Langley

Township of Langley/Instagram

What: The Township of Langley is bringing back Dive-In Movie Nights to the Otter Co-op Outdoor Experience for three nights in July and August.

Guests can bring their favourite inflatable to watch the movies while floating inside Breaker Bay or relax poolside with their favourite snacks.

When: July 18, August 1 and August 22, 2024
Time: 7 to 9 pm
Where: Aldergrove Credit Union Community Centre — 27032 Fraser Hwy, Langley Township
Cost: $8, register online starting seven days before each screening.

Movies on the Mountain

What: Enjoy a one-of-a-kind outdoor movie experience at Grouse Mountain this summer! Watch screenings of popular films like Encanto, Jurassic Park and Grease with stunning views of the Cascade Mountain Range on Thursday nights in August.

When: Every Thursday from August 1 to 29, 2024
Time: Movies will start at sunset, times may vary (approx. 9 pm)
Where: Grouse Mountain (Altitudes Bistro) – 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Tickets/Admissions: $25 Sunset Rate after 7 pm (online offer only). Day passes and annual passes are also available. Purchase online

Drive-In Movie Nights in Richmond

What: Drive-In Movie Nights at Lansdowne Centre, presented by the shopping mall and Fresh Air Cinema, takes place every Wednesday from July 10 to 31.

The movie screenings take place in the parking lot of Lansdowne Centre, and each parking spot is priced at $25. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to support the Canadian Blood Services.

When: Every Wednesday from July 10 to 31, 2024
Time: The film starts at sunset
Where: Lansdowne Centre — 5300 Number 3 Road, Richmond
Cost: $25, purchase online