Unplug from your streaming services and embrace the outdoors with these exciting movie screenings this spring and summer. Explore free viewings of recent and classic films around plazas and parks around Northern Virginia.
With just a cozy blanket and lawn chair, you can unwind under the beautiful night sky without having to break the bank. In case of inclement weather, check the social media pages and websites of the event organizers for updates.
Movies on the Potomac
Thursdays and Sundays through September 27, 7 p.m., 6 p.m.
Feel the breeze of the Potomac while watching movies riverside at National Harbor. On Sundays, bring the family for hits like Smurfs and Zootopia 2. Thursdays are for adults, featuring films such as Hamnet and Top Gun Maverick. Plus, you can savor delicious food from nearby dining spots as you watch. National Harbor, Oxon Hill, Maryland, free
Reston Station Summerbration
Saturdays through August 29, 6:30–9 p.m.
As part of the Summerbration, head to Reston Station for free outdoor family movies. They’re often paired with other fun events, like giant Jenga and large floating bubbles to accompany a showing of Honey, I Shrunk the Kids on June 20. Reston Station, Reston, free
Loudoun Station Summerbration
Sundays through August 30, 6:30–9 p.m.
Get your adrenaline pumping with family-friendly adventure films, some of which are paired with special events to enhance your viewing experience. There’s Big on July 6, with a hopscotch and jump rope event, then a chance to meet some real Minions on August 2 with a screening of Minions. Loudoun Station, Ashburn, free
Movies Under the Moon
June 12, July 10, August 14, September 11, 8 p.m.
Van Dyck Park transforms into a paradise for Pixar movie lovers. See the tales of Zootopia, The Lego Movie, Honey, I Shrunk The Kids, and The Secret Life of Pets. Van Dyck Park, Fairfax, free
Columbia Pike Movie Nights
Saturdays, July–August, 8:30 p.m.
Family-friendly blockbusters and timeless classics are coming to these two outdoor Arlington locations. Watch the website for more details on upcoming films for 2026. Arlington Mill Community Center, Arlington; Penrose Square, Arlington, free
Cinema Del Ray
Dates vary
Head to Del Ray for free outdoor movies, like a screening of Zootopia 2 on May 16. Snacks are available to purchase. Check the Facebook page for additional events as they’re announced. Mount Vernon Recreation Center, Alexandria, free
Films in the Park at Mosaic
Thursdays through August 20
Don’t miss these weekly movie nights in Strawberry Park, with films shown rain or shine. Check their event page for films and updates. Strawberry Park, Mosaic District, free
Falls Church Sunset Cinema
Select Fridays, August to October
The annual sunset series kicks off in August with screenings on various Fridays throughout the months. Viewers are encouraged to bring blankets, bug spray, and a picnic, with food and drink available for purchase. In inclement weather, the screenings are postponed to the following Friday. City of Falls Church Community Center, Falls Church, free
Feature image courtesy National Harbor
