Those looking for free outdoor cinema options will find tons of free movie screenings all around the Bay Area. Many neighborhoods host these screenings as community events so stop by and watch a film with a date or bring the family to enjoy a free outdoor movie.

Film Night in the Park- Mission District

Photo courtesy of Film Night in the Park

Other neighborhoods: Downtown San Francisco and North Beach

Film Night in the Park is an outdoor movie experience popping up all over the city during the month of August. Past summer viewings have occurred at Dolores Park in the Mission District, Union Square in Downtown San Francisco, and Washington Square Park in North Beach. 

Moonlight Movies - Danville

Moonlight Movies photo courtesy of Town of Danville 

The Town of Danville hosts Moonlight Movies throughout the summer months. This event features family movie screenings for free. It’s held on the Danville Town Green so bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks to watch a family film (such as “The Little Mermaid,” “Coco,” or “Guardians of the Galaxy”) on select dates.

Free Movies on the Beach - Santa Cruz

Photo courtesy of Free Movies on the Beach

Santa Cruz locals and visitors can have their own outdoor cinema experience for free on the beach every Wednesday night from June through August. Watch classic movies like “Hairspray,” “The Lost Boys,” or “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” during the Free Movies on the Beach cinema series held on the Santa Cruz Boardwalk this summer.

Starlight Movies in the Park - Alameda

Projection screen set-up in park for movie night

Families in Alameda can catch free movies outdoors at the Alameda Point Multipurpose Field or at Leydecker Park Bay Farm Island with the Alameda’s own Starlight Movies in the Park. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. with pre-movie activities like games and crafts for kids. Featured films start at 8:15 p.m. and include family-friendly films like “Despicable Me,” “Sing,” or “Coco.”

Cinema at Sundown - Cupertino

Photo courtesy of Memorial Park Amphitheater

In August, Cupertino cinefiles can watch three different movies at the Memorial Park Amphitheater. Each film in the city’s Cinema at Sundown series starts at 8:15 p.m.  Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and popcorn to watch classics like “Beauty and the Beast,” “Coco,” or “Wonder Woman” for free on August 10, 17, and 24.