There is something unmistakably Los Angeles about watching a film outdoors on a summer evening. As the sun sets out west and the city lights begin to flicker on, parking lots become cinemas, rooftops become theaters, and historic landmarks become the backdrop for some of the most memorable movie nights of the year.

From Cinespia’s legendary screenings at Hollywood Forever Cemetery to Street Food Cinema’s community gatherings at The Autry and Los Angeles State Historic Park, outdoor movies have become one of the city’s most beloved summer traditions. The appeal is not simply the film itself, but the entire experience: arriving early with friends, spreading out a blanket, grabbing food from local vendors, and watching a familiar favorite beneath the stars.
Below check out our list of the the best outdoor movie screenings happening across Los Angeles through Labor Day.
Practical Magic
Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Gates: 6:45 p.m. | Film: Evening screening
Few films feel more suited to a summer night beneath the stars than Practical Magic. The 1998 romantic fantasy stars Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as sisters Gillian and Sally Owens, descendants of a long line of witches who must confront an ancient family curse while navigating love, loss, and the expectations placed upon them. With its blend of romance, supernatural mystery, and late-1990s charm, the film has become a cult favorite, particularly among fans who return to its themes of sisterhood, independence, and finding one’s own path. Cinespia’s Hollywood Forever screenings are known for their pre-show atmosphere, including music, themed programming, and the unique setting of Fairbanks Lawn beneath the cemetery’s historic mausoleum.
Cars (25th Anniversary)
Street Food Cinema at The Autry Museum of the American West
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Doors: 6:00 p.m. | Film: 8:15 p.m.
Extras: Bar on-site, free parking, dog-friendly
Street Food Cinema celebrates the anniversary of Pixar’s Cars with a summer evening at The Autry. The beloved animated adventure follows Lightning McQueen, a hotshot rookie race car who finds himself stranded in the forgotten desert town of Radiator Springs after a wrong turn leaves him far from the spotlight of the racing world. What begins as an inconvenience becomes an unexpected journey of friendship, humility, and discovering that success is about more than winning. The evening combines outdoor cinema with food, drinks, and a relaxed museum setting in Griffith Park.
A League of Their Own
Moonlight Movies on the Beach at Granada Beach, Long Beach
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Film: Approximately 8:00 p.m. (at dusk)
Admission: Free
There are few settings more appropriate for A League of Their Own than a summer night by the water. Penny Marshall’s beloved 1992 comedy-drama tells the story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, following sisters Dottie and Kit as they join a pioneering women’s baseball team during World War II. Starring Geena Davis, Tom Hanks, Madonna, and Rosie O’Donnell, the film balances humor and heart while exploring friendship, competition, and the women who helped reshape American sports history. Moonlight Movies on the Beach invites guests to bring blankets and chairs, with the screening taking place steps from the Pacific Ocean.
The Princess and the Frog
Beach Movie Nights at Dockweiler Youth Center
Friday, August 7, 2026
Film: Evening screening
Disney’s The Princess and the Frog brings a modern fairy tale to the beach with a story rooted in New Orleans jazz, folklore, and romance. The 2009 animated musical follows Tiana, an ambitious young woman dreaming of opening her own restaurant, whose life changes after an encounter with Prince Naveen leads her into a magical adventure through the Louisiana bayou. Featuring memorable songs, lush animation, and a heroine whose determination drives the story, the film remains a favorite for families and Disney fans. Dockweiler’s outdoor movie series offers a relaxed coastal setting for a summer evening under the stars.
The Notebook
Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA
August 5 and August 18
Doors: Approximately 30 minutes before showtime
A defining romance of the early 2000s, The Notebook follows Noah and Allie, two young lovers whose relationship is challenged by family expectations, social differences, and the passage of time. Based on Nicholas Sparks’ bestselling novel, the film stars Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams in performances that helped cement the movie as a modern romantic classic. Rooftop Cinema Club brings the experience above the city streets, pairing classic films with skyline views, comfortable seating, and a distinctly Los Angeles atmosphere.
Pulp Fiction
Rooftop Movies at The Montalbán
Friday, August 7, 2026
Film: Evening screening
Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction remains one of the most influential films of the 1990s, a nonlinear crime story that follows interconnected characters navigating the underworld of Los Angeles. Featuring iconic performances from John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, and Bruce Willis, the film blends dark humor, sharp dialogue, and pop-culture references into a singular cinematic experience. A rooftop screening at the historic Montalbán Theatre offers a particularly fitting Hollywood setting for a movie that transformed the way audiences thought about independent filmmaking and modern noir.
The Mummy
Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Gates: 6:45 p.m. | Film: Evening screening
Stephen Sommers’ 1999 adventure revival transformed an old Hollywood monster into a globe-trotting spectacle. Starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz, The Mummy follows an adventurer, an archaeologist, and a mysterious ancient curse awakened in the Egyptian desert. Equal parts action movie, romance, and supernatural adventure, the film became a defining blockbuster of its era, blending classic monster-movie mythology with Indiana Jones-style thrills. The Hollywood Forever setting adds another layer of atmosphere to this cinematic excavation of ancient legends and Hollywood nostalgia.
Wet Hot American Summer (25th Anniversary Reunion)
Street Food Cinema at The Autry Museum of the American West
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Doors: 6:00 p.m. | Film: 8:30 p.m.
Extras: Bar on-site, free parking, dog-friendly
David Wain’s cult comedy Wet Hot American Summer returns for its 25th anniversary with a special outdoor screening at The Autry. Set during the final day of a fictional summer camp in 1981, the film follows a chaotic group of counselors and campers through romances, rivalries, absurd schemes, and increasingly surreal adventures. Originally overlooked before finding a devoted following, the movie has since become one of the most beloved cult comedies of the early 2000s, thanks to its all-star cast and deliberately over-the-top sense of humor.
Clueless
Street Food Cinema at The Autry Museum of the American West
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Afternoon screening: 1:30–3:30 p.m.
While Street Food Cinema’s evening series brings movies outdoors after sunset, The Autry is also celebrating Los Angeles stories on screen with a special presentation of Clueless. Amy Heckerling’s 1995 comedy follows Cher Horowitz, a Beverly Hills teenager whose confidence, fashion sense, and matchmaking ambitions lead her into unexpected lessons about friendship, identity, and growing up. A sharp adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma, the film remains one of the most enduring portraits of 1990s Los Angeles youth culture.
The Sandlot
Movie Night at Dodger Stadium
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Film: Evening screening
Few films capture the nostalgia of summer quite like The Sandlot. Set in the early 1960s, David Mickey Evans’ 1993 coming-of-age classic follows a new kid in town who finds friendship and belonging through a neighborhood baseball team. Filled with backyard adventures, legendary childhood rivalries, and unforgettable moments on the diamond, the film has become a beloved annual tradition for generations of viewers. Watching The Sandlot at Dodger Stadium adds another layer of baseball history to an already iconic sports movie experience.
The Princess Bride
Street Food Cinema at Los Angeles State Historic Park
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Doors: 6:00 p.m. | Film: 8:30 p.m.
Extras: Bar on-site, free parking, dog-friendly
Few films have achieved the timeless popularity of The Princess Bride. Rob Reiner’s 1987 fantasy adventure follows Westley, a farmhand turned pirate who embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Buttercup, encountering sword fights, giants, revenge plots, and unforgettable characters along the way. Blending romance, comedy, and adventure, the film has remained a favorite across generations thanks to its endlessly quotable dialogue and affectionate parody of classic fairy tales. Street Food Cinema’s Los Angeles State Historic Park setting makes for a fitting backdrop for this beloved story of adventure and devotion.
X + Pearl: Slumber Party Double Feature
Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Gates: 6:45 p.m.
Cinespia brings a special horror double feature to Hollywood Forever with Ti West’s acclaimed X and Pearl. Set in 1979, X follows a group of filmmakers who travel to rural Texas to shoot an adult film, only to find themselves facing a terrifying situation at the secluded farmhouse where they are staying. Its companion film, Pearl, explores the origins of the unforgettable character introduced in X, creating a stylish and unsettling portrait of ambition, isolation, and obsession.
Coming to America
Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Gates: Evening screening
John Landis’ 1988 comedy classic Coming to America follows Prince Akeem of Zamunda, who travels to Queens, New York, in search of a partner who will love him for who he is rather than his royal title. Starring Eddie Murphy in one of his most iconic roles, alongside Arsenio Hall, James Earl Jones, and a memorable ensemble cast, the film remains a beloved celebration of romance, independence, and the collision of cultures. A Cinespia screening at Hollywood Forever adds another layer of nostalgia to a film already deeply tied to the spirit of classic Hollywood entertainment. Guests can expect the signature Cinespia experience: music before the screening, a picnic-friendly atmosphere, and a crowd that turns movie night into a full summer event.
Obsession
Street Food Cinema at The Autry Museum of the American West
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Doors: 6:00 p.m. | Music: 7:00 p.m. | Film: 8:30 p.m.
Extras: Bar on-site, free parking, dog-friendly
Street Food Cinema brings Obsession to The Autry for a late-summer outdoor screening. The psychological thriller follows a hopeless romantic whose attempt to win over his crush through a mysterious wish leads to unexpected and increasingly sinister consequences. Combining elements of romance, fantasy, and suspense, the film explores the darker side of desire and the danger of getting exactly what you think you want. The evening includes live pre-show entertainment, food and drinks, and the relaxed outdoor atmosphere that has made Street Food Cinema one of Los Angeles’ favorite summer traditions.
La La Land
Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Doors: 30 minutes before showtime | Film: 10:30 p.m.
Damien Chazelle’s La La Land remains one of the defining modern love letters to Los Angeles. The Oscar-winning musical follows Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a jazz musician, as they pursue their creative ambitions while falling in love against the backdrop of the city’s theaters, studios, and neighborhoods. Featuring unforgettable musical numbers, sweeping cinematography, and a deeply nostalgic vision of Hollywood dreams, the film feels especially fitting when viewed above the city it celebrates. Rooftop Cinema Club’s DTLA location pairs the film with skyline views and an elevated outdoor movie experience.
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World
Marina Movie Nights at Burton Chace Park, Marina del Rey
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Film: 8:00 p.m.
Admission: Free
Edgar Wright’s Scott Pilgrim vs. the World combines romance, video games, comic book aesthetics, and high-energy action into one of the most distinctive films of the 21st century. The story follows Scott Pilgrim, a young musician who must defeat his new girlfriend’s seven evil exes in order to win her heart. With its inventive visual style, kinetic editing, and cult following, the film remains a favorite among fans of alternative cinema and graphic novel adaptations. Marina Movie Nights brings the screening outdoors at Burton Chace Park, where guests can enjoy a free evening by the water beneath the stars.
Labyrinth
Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Saturday, August 29, 2026
Gates: Evening screening
Jim Henson’s Labyrinth transports audiences into one of the most imaginative fantasy worlds ever created for the screen. The 1986 cult classic stars Jennifer Connelly as Sarah, a teenager who must navigate a mysterious maze filled with strange creatures and magical challenges after wishing her baby brother away to the Goblin King, played by David Bowie. Blending puppetry, fantasy, music, and adventure, the film has earned generations of devoted fans for its singular visual style and dreamlike atmosphere. A screening at Hollywood Forever feels particularly fitting for a film so closely associated with imagination, artistry, and the magic of cinema.
Michael
Street Food Cinema at The Autry Museum of the American West
Saturday, August 29, 2026
Doors: 6:00 p.m. | Film: 8:30 p.m.
Extras: Audience trivia, bar on-site, free parking, dog-friendly
Street Food Cinema presents Michael, the upcoming biographical drama exploring the early life and rise of Michael Jackson, from his discovery as the lead singer of the Jackson Five to his transformation into one of the most influential entertainers in music history. The film traces the ambition, talent, and creative drive behind Jackson’s extraordinary career while examining the person behind one of popular culture’s most recognizable figures. The evening at The Autry includes outdoor screening amenities, audience activities, and a community-focused atmosphere.
10 Things I Hate About You
Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA
Saturday, September 5, 2026
Doors: 60 minutes before showtime | Film: 7:45 p.m.
A defining teen comedy of the late 1990s, 10 Things I Hate About You updates Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew for a modern high school setting. The film follows popular student Bianca, who is only allowed to date once her older sister Kat agrees to go out as well, leading to a complicated scheme involving the rebellious Patrick Verona. Starring Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger, the film became a beloved coming-of-age favorite thanks to its sharp dialogue, memorable performances, and unexpectedly heartfelt romance. Rooftop Cinema Club’s DTLA screening offers one final summer evening opportunity to revisit this endlessly charming favorite beneath the city lights.
Practical Magic
Street Food Cinema at The Autry Museum of the American West
Saturday, September 5, 2026
Doors: 5:30 p.m. | Film: Evening screening
Extras: Bar on-site, free parking, dog-friendly
Once again, Practical Magic! Closing out the summer season at The Autry, Street Food Cinema returns with another screening of Practical Magic. The beloved film follows sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, descendants of witches who must confront a family curse while discovering the strength of their bond and their own identities. With its themes of family, resilience, romance, and embracing the unusual, the film has become a perennial favorite, particularly during late summer and early fall. The outdoor setting at The Autry provides the perfect backdrop for one last magical evening under the stars before the season changes.
Summer Movie Nights Are One of Los Angeles’ Best Traditions
As summer winds down, outdoor movie season remains one of the best ways to experience Los Angeles. From historic cemeteries and museum lawns to rooftops overlooking Downtown and parks throughout the city, these screenings transform familiar films into shared experiences. Whether revisiting a childhood favorite, discovering a cult classic, or simply enjoying an evening outdoors with friends, Los Angeles continues to prove that the magic of the movies extends far beyond the theater walls.
Enjoy!
Jacqueline Tager | DRE# 1476997
jacqueline.tager@sothebyshomes.com | (323) 697-3040
Sotheby’s International Realty – Los Feliz Brokerage
1801 N Hillhurst Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90027
Comments RSS You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
Follow The Hollywood Home