Experience the magic of outdoor summer movies in Boston this year! As the warm summer evenings descend upon Boston, the city comes alive with the enchanting allure of outdoor movie screenings. From June 14th to October 11th, 2024, nearly 100 movies will light up across various neighborhoods, offering residents and visitors a unique cinematic experience under the stars. This beloved summer tradition transforms parks, plazas, and open spaces into al fresco theaters, creating unforgettable nights of community and entertainment.
These outdoor movie events are not only plentiful but also inclusive, with many screenings available for free. Families, friends, and solo movie buffs can gather to enjoy a wide range of films, from recent blockbusters to cult classics. The diverse programming ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for an action-packed adventure, a heartwarming romance, or a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Beyond just movies, these events often feature additional programming and activities, making some nights a mini festival reflecting the host organization or location. At some movies, food and beverage options abound, allowing attendees to savor local treats and refreshing drinks while they relax on blankets or lawn chairs. The festive atmosphere, coupled with the magic of watching films outdoors, creates a unique and delightful way to spend a summer evening in Boston.
As you plan your summer activities, be sure to mark your calendar for these special movie nights. Whether you’re a longtime Boston resident or a visitor exploring the city, the outdoor movie screenings offer a quintessentially Bostonian experience that captures the spirit of summer.
While there are seemingly endless options for watching movies outdoors in Boston this summer 2024, we have created a shortlist of some of our favorite options that are close to the Clarendon Square Boston Bed and Breakfast. Click the heading link for each destination for move specific information on attending a screening there.
MOVIE NIGHTS AT MIT OPEN SPACE
Just across the Charles River, head to the Kendall/MIT community space for free popcorn, snacks. Not surprisingly the MIT Open Space Movie nights will contain a scientific theme. Our personal favorites include the grounding breaking Hidden Figures and Imitation Game which highlight the immeasurable contributions of individuals in the Black and Gay community which history has often over looked.
Friday, 6/14: ‘Spirited Away’
Friday, 6/28: ‘Hidden Figures’
Friday, 7/12: ‘Shrek’
Friday, 7/19: ‘Back to the Future’
Friday, 8/2: ‘My Neighbor Totoro’
Thursday, 8/8: ‘The Imitation Game’
Friday, 8/16: TBA
Friday, 8/30: TBA
THE ANCHOR SUMMER MOVIE SERIES
Watch Wednesdays is back this season with the Anchor’s open-air courtyard once again becoming the perfect venue to unwind and enjoy your favorite films all summer long.
Starting at 9 PM every Wednesday, these weekly movie nights are always free and open to the public, welcoming guests of all ages. With comfortable lounge seating, free-standing tables, and a well-stocked bar, The Anchor provides an ideal setting for a relaxing evening. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Charlestown Naval Yard, you can enjoy stunning views of Boston as you settle in for a night of cinematic magic.
In addition to the captivating movies, The Anchor offers a delightful selection of food and beverages. Their full bar and kitchen are open daily until 11 PM, ensuring you have everything you need to make your movie night truly special.
Wednesday, 6/19: ‘42’
Wednesday, 6/26: ‘The Devil Wears Prada’
Wednesday, 7/3: ‘4th of July – Top Gun’
Wednesday, 7/10: ‘Dirty Dancing’
Wednesday, 7/17: ‘In The Heights’
Wednesday, 7/24: ‘Shark Week – Jaws’
Wednesday, 7/31: ‘The Goonies’
Wednesday, 8/7: ‘Mamma Mia’
Wednesday, 8/14: ‘Knives Out’
Wednesday, 8/21: ‘Barbie’
Wednesday, 8/28: ‘Back to the Future’
SUMMER FLICKS AT THE PRUDENTIAL CENTER
Starting July 13th our guests can attend free outdoor movies at Prudential Center’s South Garden, making this the closest option to our Inn, just an 8 minute walk. Bring a blanket, pick up some delicious treats from our onsite eateries like Eataly, and enjoy movies starting at 6 PM. The movie lineup features a mix of family friendly movies. Here you can experience the magic of outdoor cinema in the heart of the city with the most convience.
All movies will begin at dusk. No pre-registration needed to attend.
Saturday, 7/13: ‘Legally Blonde’
Saturday, 7/20: ‘The Marvels’
Saturday, 7/27: ‘Elemental’
Saturday, 8/3: ‘The Princess and the Frog’
Saturday, 8/10: ‘National Treasure’
Saturday, 8/17: ‘Migration’
Saturday, 8/24: ‘The Little Mermaid
FREE FRIDAY FLICKS AT THE HATCH SHELL
Perhaps the most iconic location on our list. Movie goers are treated to a setting like no other, which may actually compete with the movie itself. Set on the beautiful Esplanade along the Charles River. Watch a list of to be announced movies each Friday at the Hatch Shell. Check back for updated information as it becomes available.
Friday, 7/12: TBA
Friday, 7/19: TBA
Friday, 8/2: TBA
Friday, 8/9: TBA
Friday, 8/16: TBA
Friday, 8/21: TBA
SCIENCE ON SCREEN AT THE GREENWAY
The iconic Coolidge from Brookline will host sci-fi movie nights for free this summer on the Greenway with the collaboration with the Museum of Science.
Wednesday, 7/31: ‘Godzilla 2000’
Wednesday, 8/21: ‘Apollo 13’
For those looking to explore the diverse neighborhoods of Boston, consider participating in Mayor Wu’s Movie Night! Starting in Allston on August 6th, ending in Downtown on August 29th with the South End falling in the middle of the month on the 21st, guest will enjoy free popcorn and a wide selection of films.
Tuesday, 8/6: Allston/Brighton Movie Night: ‘The Little Mermaid’
Monday, 8/12: Jamaica Plain Meteor Shower Movie Night: ‘A Million Miles Away’
Tuesday, 8/13: Roslindale Movie Night: ‘Elemental’
Wednesday, 8/14: West Roxbury Movie Night: ‘Wonka’
Monday, 8/19: Roxbury Movie Night: ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’
Wednesday, 8/21: South End Movie Night: ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Thursday, 8/22: Hyde Park Movie Night: ‘Kung Fu Panda 4’
Monday, 8/26: Charlestown Movie Night: ‘Trolls Band Together’
Tuesday, 8/27: Dorchester Movie Night: ‘Wish’
Wednesday, 8/28: East Boston Movie Night: ‘Encanto’
Thursday, 8/29: Downtown Movie Night: ‘Ghostbusters: The Frozen Empire’