Looking to catch a movie on the big screen this summer, but don’t want to spend your evening inside a jam-packed theatre and can’t get to a drive-in?
There are numerous outdoor movie screenings — mostly free, and mainly geared toward families — taking place across the Greater Toronto Area.
Toronto Outdoor Picture Show
This annual festival is underway, with free, accessible programming at three different locations across the city: Christie Pits, Corktown Common and Bell Manor Park. This year’s theme, “On the Job,” highlights films that explore how work impacts our lives.
Highlights “Modern Times” (July 7 at Christie Pits), “Chungking Express” (July 18 at Corktown Common); “Mary Poppins” (Aug. 16 at Bell Manor Park).
Under the Stars
This free, family-friendly festival, which includes games and activities before each screening, takes place at sundown at Regent Park in downtown Toronto.
Highlights “The Queen of My Dreams” (July 10), “Raya and the Last Dragon” (July 17) and “Crooklyn” (July 24).
Free Flicks at Harbourfront Centre
This year’s programming right off the lake includes 10 free screenings, from old-school classics to newer releases.
Highlights “Grease” (July 9), “Clueless” (July 23), “Barbie” (Aug. 27).
Free Outdoor Movie Nights at Evergreen Brick Works
Enjoy a movie set against the beautiful backdrop of the Evergreen Brick Works in the Don Valley. This free series features animated films screened beneath covered pavilions.
When Between July 18 and Aug. 22.
Highlights “Shrek” (July 18), “Ratatouille” (Aug. 8), “Up” (Aug. 22).
Films on Shortt
Bring your own chair or blanket down to Shortt Street, near Dufferin and Eglinton, for free screenings presented by the Fairbank Village BIA. Oh, and there’s free popcorn for attendees.
When Between July 19 and Sept. 13.
Highlights “Hotel Transylvania 4” (July 19), “Kung Fu Panda 4” (Aug. 16), “The Garfield Movie” (Sept. 13).
Lavazza IncluCity Festival
Presented by the Italian Contemporary Film Festival, the IncluCity Festival offers a diverse collection of international films. The event, which includes free events and ticketed screenings, takes place in the Distillery District.
Highlights “Comandante” (July 9), “Umami” (July 16), “Mr. & Mrs. Mahi” (July 20).
Movie Nights at Celebration Square
This free, accessible festival takes place every Thursday this summer in downtown Mississauga.
When July 4 until Sept. 5.
Highlights “Barbie” (July 25), “Wonka” (Aug. 15), “Trolls Band Together” (Aug. 29).
Moonlight Movies
If you’re in Richmond Hill, check out the free Moonlight Movies series, at various locations across the city. Head down early for pre-show activities and snacks before showtime at dusk.
When Between Aug. 19 and Sept. 20.
Highlights “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” (Aug. 19 at the Richmond Hill Public Library), “Wonka” (Aug. 26 at Ozark Park), “Barbie” (Sept. 20 at David Hamilton Park).
Movies Under the Stars
Brampton movie lovers are in luck this summer: free screenings are taking place in July and August in such venues as Chinguacousy Park, Garden Square, Gore Meadows Community Centre and Mount Pleasant Square.
Highlights “Migration” (July 12 at Chinguacousy Park), “Guardians of the Galaxy” (July 20 at Garden Square), “Elemental” (Aug. 2 at Gore Meadows), “Frozen” (Aug. 3 at Mount Pleasant).
