With the arrival of June, New York City transforms into a vibrant hub of summer activities, and one of the most cherished traditions is the free outdoor movie screenings. These events offer a unique way to enjoy classic films and recent blockbusters under the stars, surrounded by the city’s iconic skyline. Here’s your guide to the best free outdoor movie screenings in NYC this June, complete with tips for making the most of these cinematic experiences.
1. Bryant Park Movie Nights
Bryant Park is a beloved spot for outdoor movies, attracting locals and tourists alike. The lawn opens at 5 PM, and films begin at 8pm. Arrive early to secure a good spot, and bring a blanket, some snacks, and friends for a memorable evening. Find the full summer schedule here.
June Schedule:
- June 10: “Forrest Gump”
- June 17: “The Talented Mr. Ripley”
- June 24: “Boomerang”
2. Rooftop Films Summer Series
Rooftop Films offers a mix of free and ticketed screenings, showcasing independent films and documentaries in various outdoor locations. Some of the screenings in June are free but require RSVP, so be sure to check their website for details.
June Schedule:
- June 3rd: “Gaga Chromatica Ball” – Gansevoort Plaza, Manhattan at 7:00PM
- June 4th: “The Marvels” – Hinton Park, Queens at 7:00PM
- June 4th: “Chronicles of a Wandering Saint” – Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn at 7:30PM
- June 8th: “Rooftop Selects: Cemetery Shorts” – Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn at 7:45PM
- June 11th: “One Hand Don’t Clap” – The Louis Armstrong House Museum, Queens at 7:30PM
- June 11th: “Orphan Black: Echoes” – Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn at 8:00PM
- June 12th: “Vidas Vibrantes: Shorts En Español” – Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn at 7:00PM
- June 15th: “Summer of Soul (…Or When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) – Brower Heights, Crown Heights at 7:00PM
- June 19th: “The Little Mermaid (2023)” – Helen Marshall Playground, Queens at 7:00PM
- June 20th: “My First Film” – The Old American Can Factory, Gowanus, Brooklyn at 8:00PM
- June 22: “Ferdinand” – Brooklyn Army Terminal, Sunset Park, Brooklyn at 8:00PM
- June 25: “Queerly Beloved: Pride Shorts in the Park” – Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn at 7:00PM
3. McCarren Park
This popular Brooklyn event series combines free movies with food vendors and live music, creating a festive atmosphere at McCarren Park. Gates open at 6 PM, with films starting at dusk.
June Schedule:
- June 7: “Zoolander”
- June 14: “Empire Records”
- June 28: “But I’m a Cheerleader”
4. The Seaport Cinema: Movies on the Water
Head up to The Rooftop at Pier 17 for a season of great music-themed films and special surprises throughout the summer. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to capacity. So, arrive early to secure your spot and enjoy the full Seaport Cinema experience.
June Schedule:
- June 10th: “Mamma Mia” – Doors open at 6:30PM
5. Films on the Green
Celebrate the spirit of sports through the lens of French cinema this summer with Villa Albertine’s French film festival. Immerse yourself in stories of competition, triumph, and the human spirit, all while enjoying the beauty of NYC’s parks.
June Schedule:
- June 7th: “Final Set (5ème Set)” – Washington Square Park at 8:30PM
- June 14th: “The Odyssey (L’Odyssée)” – Washington Square Park at 8:30PM
- June 21st: “My Donkey, My Lover & I (Antoinette dans les Cévennes)” – WNYC Transmitter Park, Brooklyn at 8:30PM
- June 28th: “The Triplets of Belleville (Les Triplettes de Belleville)” – J. Hood Wright Park at 8:30PM
6. Movies Under the Stars
Hosted by the NYC Parks Department, Movies Under the Stars brings free films to parks across the five boroughs. These community-oriented events are perfect for families and provide a chance to explore different neighborhoods.
June Schedule:
- There are 66 movies scheduled to play for the month of June. You can find the full schedule here.
Tips for Enjoying Free Outdoor Movie Screenings
- Arrive Early: Popular screenings can get crowded, so arrive early to claim a good spot. Bring a blanket or portable chairs for comfort.
- Pack a Picnic: Enhance your movie night with a picnic. Many screenings are near areas where you can pick up food and drinks, but bringing your own snacks ensures you have all your favorites.
- Dress Comfortably: Evenings can get cool, so bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the screening. A light jacket or blanket can make a big difference.
- Check the Weather: Outdoor screenings are weather-dependent. Check the event’s website or social media for updates in case of rain.
- Respect the Space: Be mindful of others by keeping noise to a minimum during the film and cleaning up any trash when you leave.
Outdoor movie screenings in NYC are a quintessential summer experience, blending the magic of cinema with the charm of the city’s outdoor spaces. There’s certainly no shortage of opportunities to enjoy movies under the stars this June. So, grab your friends, pack your picnic, and get ready for a summer of unforgettable cinematic nights!
