Love the movies? Love being outdoors? Combine the two pleasures with a night of outdoor cinema in Brisbane. The big screen rises against the big sky and you become part of the action or drama. There’s something for everyone, from family films to thrillers, dramas, classics and cult movies. And venues range from South Bank to hotel rooftops to suburban screenings in parks.
Always be sure to check our calendar for details of the various outdoor movie listings in Brisbane.
Here's our guide to Brisbane's alfresco films:
Moonlight Cinema
Moonlight Cinema is held in New Farm Park at Brisbane Powerhouse. You can look forward to soaking up the last rays of sunshine in the parkland setting then watching the best in Australian and international cinema, on Wednesday to Sunday nights. Spread out a picnic rug or hire a bean bed for ultimate viewing comfort. And the hamper-challenged needn't despair, on-site catering will be on hand with an array of food (but you are welcome to BYO food).
Moonlight Cinema runs from 9 December 2009 to 21 February 2010, with gates opening at 6pm and screening starting at sundown, approximately 7pm.
Where: Brisbane Powerhouse Centre for the Arts, 119 Lamington Street, New Farm.
Limes Rooftop Cinema
These are outdoor movies with a difference - there's a cityscape view thrown in as you watch the films in a rooftop bar of the boutique Limes Hotel. There are generally two sessions each Tuesday and Wednesday night (approximately 6.30pm & 9pm) but check screening details. Sorry, but this sophisticated experience is limited to adults only, due to licensing laws. You can buy tickets online for $12 (plus booking fee).
Where: Limes Hotel, 142 Constance Street, Fortitude Valley.
Tropfest
Known as the world’s largest short film festival, Tropfest is a free, public, outdoor, annual short film festival held in February each year. 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: 2010 details TBC
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.
It ran during March 2009 and will return in 2010. Each night kicks off at 5.30pm at South Bank's Rainforest Green – down by the river. 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. Stay tuned for 2010 event details.
Movies in the Park
The local Councillors of Brisbane City Council occasionally organise free outdoor movie screening events. These are called 'Movies in the Park' and arrangements are handled by the local ward offices. If details aren't in our events calendar, please call your local councillor for more information.
Special events
The screening details are still to be finalised but expect to see free and family-friendly movies at South Bank Parklands over Christmas and New Year's Eve.
Where: South Bank Parklands, Cultural Forecourt
