The Bay Area’s outdoor movie lovers are feeling a void this summer due to the abrupt cancellation of San Francisco’s beloved Sundown Cinema, an open-air film series that entertained residents for 22 years.
Operated by the nonprofit San Francisco Parks Alliance, this cherished event is now facing challenges as city officials review the organization’s finances.
However, movie enthusiasts longing for evenings under the stars need not despair—numerous other outdoor film screenings are available across the Bay Area, many of which are free.
Cities and counties are hosting their own movie series in parks and public spaces, with a lineup that includes some crowd favorites like “Wicked” and “Clueless”.
Additionally, expect some delightful surprises, such as “Field of Dreams” in Danville on June 27, outdoor showings of “Space Jam” at Jack London Square on July 12, and “Happy Gilmore” on August 2, with the classic “10 Things I Hate About You” wrapping up on August 15 at San Francisco’s Chase Center.
To prepare for these outdoor screenings, it’s recommended to arrive early, as most films start just after dusk around 8:30 p.m.
This gives viewers the best chance to find an ideal viewing spot before the crowds settle in.
While many screenings do not require tickets or reservations, some unique showings at community pools may necessitate an RSVP.
Before attending any event, it’s wise to check the weather forecast in advance, to determine if screenings will proceed despite rain or other weather disruptions.
For a comfortable experience, patrons should bring picnic blankets, light sweaters, and snacks that won’t make much noise while being eaten.
While a camping chair may provide extra comfort, be considerate of other audiences to ensure no one’s view is blocked.
Certain venues may also have restrictions regarding pets or the consumption of alcohol, so it’s best to check the venue’s guidelines beforehand.
If you’re interested in outdoor movies with captions, it’s advisable to contact the city’s parks and recreation department at least two days in advance.
For the Berkeley showings, you can reach out at [email protected] or call (510) 926-1458, while Santa Cruz residents can call (831) 423-5590 for information about assistive listening devices available for check-out.
Santa Cruz also hosts free movie screenings right on the beach, providing a unique cinematic experience in front of the historic Colonnade.
Every Friday—except for the Fourth of July—the beach showcases films such as “Men in Black” on June 20, “Ghostbusters” (1984) on June 27, “Jumanji” (1995) on July 11, and “Clueless” on July 18.
Fans of classic films can look forward to “The Goonies” on August 8, making for a memorable night by the ocean.
For those looking for a more upscale outing that combines dining and cinema, Foreign Cinema in San Francisco’s Mission District provides an opportunity to enjoy both.
Their outdoor movie screening, projected onto the wall of the covered patio, currently features the San Francisco-centric comedy “Mrs. Doubtfire” through June 21.
While the experience may lack synchronized sound, many find the atmosphere enjoyable and perfect for a date night or celebration.
And let’s not forget the classic allure of drive-in theaters, where you can cozy up in your car while enjoying the latest films under the stars.
The Bay Area boasts two major West Wind drive-in theaters located in San José and Concord, along with another in Sacramento.
Current offerings include new releases like “Materialists,” “Ballerina,” “Lilo and Stitch,” and “Final Destination: Bloodlines.”
According to their website, these drive-in theaters operate even during rain, ensuring that movie lovers can enjoy the experience regardless of conditions.
For first-time visitors, West Wind’s FAQ section provides insights on best practices, such as keeping headlights off and parking larger vehicles towards the back of the lot to avoid blocking views.
Though it’s unlikely for your car battery to die during a screening, complimentary jump-starts are available if needed.
In summary, while the absence of Sundown Cinema may be felt, the Bay Area offers a wealth of enjoyable outdoor movie experiences for all ages this summer.
image source from：kqed
