Swap the indoor screen for starry skies with our guide to Sydney’s open-air cinemas
Forget old-school theatres and swap the silver screen for starry skies this summer! Sydney’s open-air cinemas are blooming, offering unique cinematic escapes under the twinkling lights.
From golden sands and plush beanbags to harborside grandeur and nostalgic cobblestone lanes, there’s an open-air cinema for every movie buff. Dive into a blockbuster amidst the city’s heartbeat at Westpac OpenAir, lose yourself in classic flicks under the stars at Moonlight Cinema, or snuggle into a luxurious bed on the beach at Mov’in Bed. ️
Pack a picnic, grab your mates, and get ready for an unforgettable summer of stories beneath the stars at our top picks.
Moonlight Cinema
Swap your screens for starlight this summer as Moonlight Cinema returns to Centennial Park, weaving its unique spell for another year. With balmy air, a sprawling canvas of green, and a film flickering under the vast, inky sky, it’s summer movie magic at its best. Snuggle into a comfy bean bag (your furry friend is welcome too!), pop the top on a bubbly and let the story unfold. Blockbusters, family flicks, and cherished classics await, but make sure to either pack a picnic, BYO treats or explore the food trucks. Moonlight Cinema, a timeless summer ritual, awaits. Find the full season lineup here.
Mov’in Bed Beach Cinema
Forget sandy blankets and wobbly deckchairs, Mov’in Bed Beach Cinema offers a cinematic upgrade for the discerning cinephile. You’ll sink into a plush queen-size bed, nestled on a makeshift beach beneath the twinkling harbour lights of Barangaroo as the largest outdoor screen in Australia looms before you. Meanwhile, the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues, before the opening credits begin to roll. You snuggle deeper into your cloud-like haven, noise-cancelling headphones blocking out the world, leaving only the magic of the film. This isn’t just a movie night; it’s an escape to a luxurious oasis where comfort meets entertainment. Whether you’re seeking new releases or cherished classics, Mov’in Bed’s curated program caters to every taste. So ditch the traditional open-air experience and indulge in a touch of cinematic indulgence beneath the stars – Sydney’s summer nights have never felt so dreamy. Find the full season lineup here.
North Sydney Sunset Cinema
North Sydney Oval transforms into a starry sanctuary this summer at Sunset Cinema. Forget beachside glitz, here it’s all about sinking into blankets under the open sky, a mix of beloved classics and new releases flickering on the screen. For family outings or solo escapes, Sunset caters to all. Skip the picnic prep as there is no BYO here, so we suggest opting for the Sunset Lounge’s VIP beanbags and endless popcorn. Whether sprawled on the grass or perched on the grandstand, laughter and hushed anticipation rise as the sun dips, leaving you bathed in the story’s glow. Find the full season lineup here.
Westpac Open Air Cinema
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mrs Macquaries Point, Westpac Open Air Cinema offers more than just jaw-dropping views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Imagine settling into plush grandstand seats, a gentle breeze carrying the scent of the Botanical Gardens, and a vast screen illuminating the evening sky with the latest blockbusters or beloved classics. Pre-show DJ sets to create a cool ambience, while a curated selection of food and beverage options, from gourmet snacks to bubbly at the bar, cater to every whim. It’s an experience that transcends the film itself, a unique blend of city charm, cinematic magic, and undeniable romance. So if you’re seeking a sophisticated escape under the stars, let Westpac OpenAir paint your summer nights with cinematic gold. Find the full season lineup here.
Laneway Cinema At The Rocks
Forget busy crowds and fancy menus, Laneway Cinema at The Rocks offers a cinematic escape with vintage charm. Nestled beneath the glow of golden sandstone buildings, a giant screen casts its magic on Wednesdays, weaving classic films and road trip favourites into the cobbled lanes. Cozy bean bags and comfy deck chairs beckon, a perfect haven for those seeking a simpler side of summer. Best of all, it’s free! Register for a ticket for the best spot, or take a chance and wander in – the warm community spirit welcomes all. Grab a bag of popcorn (it supports a good cause!), settle in under the starry sky, and let the stories unfold. It’s a reminder that movies are more than just entertainment; they’re shared experiences, woven into the fabric of summer nights. Find the full season lineup here.