Love the movies? Love being outdoors? Combine the two pleasures with a night of outdoor cinema in Brisbane. Outdoor movies, both local and international, give everyone the chance to enjoy Brisbane’s beautiful balmy evenings. The big screen rises against the big sky and you become part of the action or drama. No matter your age or cinematic persuasion, there’s something for everyone, from family films to thrillers, dramas, classics and cult movies. Here’s our guide to Brisbane’s alfresco films.
Please note: most outdoor cinema events take place between September and May.
Movies in the Parks
A hugely popular feature of Brisbane summers is the Brisbane City Council’s free Movies in the Parks, which runs from approximately November to April each year. Bring our own picnic and a rug or chair and enjoy an evening of free family entertainment in your local park. Movies range from recent releases to classics like “The Wizard of Oz”. For full program details vist the Brisbane City Council website. And if you're not sure if the movie will be screening due to the weather, phone Council on (07) 3403 8888 after 4.30pm on the screening day.
Where: A variety of parks in Brisbane. See Brisbane City Council website for details.
Nissan Moonlight Cinema
Located within New Farm Park at Brisbane Powerhouse, Nissan Moonlight Cinema is a star attraction on Brisbane’s summer entertainment calendar. Soak up the last rays of sunshine in the picturesque parkland setting then kick back with friends and watch the best in Australian and international cinema, including hot new releases and contemporary, classic and cult flicks. You can spread out a picnic rug or hire a bean bed ($5) for ultimate viewing comfort. Make sure you get there early, as the bean beds are extremely popular, and there aren’t enough for everybody! And the hamper-challenged needn't despair. If whipping up a gourmet picnic feast leaves you cold, on-site catering is on hand with an array of food to satisfy every taste. Plus there’s a good selection of wine, beer and other beverages.
Nissan Moonlight Cinema runs from November to February, with gates opening at 6pm and screening starting at sundown, approximately 7.30pm.
Where: Brisbane Powerhouse Centre for the Arts, 119 Lamington Street, New Farm Qld 4005
Tropfest
Known as the world’s largest short film festival, Sony Tropfest is a free, public, outdoor, annual short film festival held in February each year. The festival’s central aim is to stimulate the production of short films and then provide an audience for the work of Australia’s emerging filmmakers. From more than 700 entries each year, 16 finalists are selected to premiere their films via simultaneous satellite screenings in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, Hobart and regional locations around Australia. It’s a great event for all – and a must-see for anyone with a passion for film.
Where: South Bank Parklands, Cultural Forecourt
Brisbane Openair Cinema
Brisbane Openair Cinema’s summer series is a total entertainment experience, combining outdoor movies with DJs, live entertainment and sunset drinks and dining during the event’s signature "Orange Hour".
Running for most of December, the festival features new release films, cult classics and local artists. Each night kicks off at 5.30pm at South Bank's Rainforest Green – down by the river, chilled out in front of the giant movie screen, under the stars. The movies start at sundown, around 7pm. You can bring your own picnic or choose from the large selection of great-value drinks and yummy food (including vegetarian choices). Note: glass and BYO drinks are not permitted. A small number of deck chairs are available for hire – but be quick! It’s first in first served.
Where: South Bank Parklands, Rainforest Green
Instant Scratch-It! Christmas Movies
Bring a blanket or a bean bag and watch your all-time favourite Christmas movies on the larger-than-life Suncorp Superscreen for free! With two screenings (6pm and 8.30pm) each night of the Golden Casket Christmas Celebrations at South Bank, no one will miss out on experiencing motion picture magic while sitting under the starry summer sky. A family favourite.
Where: South Bank Parklands, Cultural Forecourt
Streets Magnum Movies
Get your New Year's Eve started with some fun family entertainment at South Bank Parklands. Catch some of your favourite flicks for free on the Suncorp Superscreen each December 31 (the Brisbane River views are a bonus!). Bring a blanket, pack a picnic and make the most of the beautiful balmy summer breezes. Screenings are family-friendly, kicking off at 5pm.
Where: South Bank Parklands, Cultural Forecourt
