Copenhagen Summer Film Festival

About

The Copenhagen Summer Film Festival (Sommerkino) transforms the city's most beautiful parks into magical open-air cinemas where families gather on blankets under the stars to enjoy movies together. This beloved Danish tradition offers a uniquely Copenhagen experience, combining the city's famous hygge culture with outdoor entertainment in stunning green spaces. It's the perfect way for traveling families to enjoy a relaxed evening like a local while the kids experience the thrill of an outdoor cinema.

What to Expect

Families arrive with blankets and picnics to claim a spot on the grass before sunset, creating a festive, community atmosphere as neighbors chat and children play. The screenings typically begin at dusk (around 9-10 PM during summer), taking advantage of Denmark's long summer evenings. Films range from recent releases to family classics, often shown in their original language with Danish subtitles, though some children's films are dubbed in Danish. The vibe is casual and relaxed, with kids often running around before the film starts and families settling in with snacks and cozy blankets as the screen lights up.

Highlights for Kids

• Experiencing the magical Danish summer twilight as the screen lights up around 9:30-10 PM while it's still partially light outside
• The cozy, picnic-style atmosphere where families spread blankets and share snacks under the stars
• Playing in the park before the movie starts—Copenhagen's parks have excellent playgrounds and open spaces
• Feeling like a local by participating in this cherished Danish summer tradition
• Watching movies in beautiful historic parks surrounded by trees and nature right in the city center

Pro Tips for Families

1. Download the festival schedule early and check if films are shown in English or Danish—many international films screen in English with Danish subtitles, perfect for English-speaking visitors
2. Arrive at least 45-60 minutes before showtime to secure a good spot, especially for popular family films, and bring extra layers as Copenhagen evenings can be surprisingly cool even in summer (10-15°C/50-59°F)
3. Pack a full picnic dinner as this is standard practice in Denmark, and bring waterproof blankets or a ground tarp since grass can be damp—cushions and low beach chairs are also popular
4. Visit Fælledparken for the most family-friendly atmosphere with more space for kids to play before showtime, while Ørstedsparken offers a more intimate, centrally-located setting near attractions

Best Time to Visit

Arrive 60-90 minutes before the scheduled screening time to set up your spot, let kids burn energy playing in the park, and enjoy your picnic dinner before the film begins. Mid-summer dates (late June through July) offer the warmest weather and lightest evenings, making them ideal for families. Weekend screenings tend to be more crowded but have a livelier, more festive atmosphere, while weeknight showings offer a more relaxed experience with easier access to good viewing spots.

Food & Drinks

The Danish tradition is to bring your own picnic, and you'll see families with elaborate spreads including sandwiches, fruit, snacks, and treats. Some locations have nearby kiosks or cafes where you can purchase ice cream, coffee, and light snacks, but options are limited. For the authentic experience, stop at a local supermarket (Netto, Føtex, or Irma) beforehand to stock up on Danish pastries, rye bread sandwiches, fruit, and drinks. Many families bring thermoses of hot chocolate or coffee for when temperatures drop after sunset. Alcohol is permitted in Danish parks, so adults often bring wine or beer to enjoy responsibly during the screening.

Parking & Access

Copenhagen is best navigated by bicycle or public transport, and most screening locations are easily accessible via Metro, S-train, or bus—Fælledparken is near Trianglen Metro station, while Ørstedsparken is walkable from Nørreport Station. Street parking near popular parks is extremely limited and often requires a resident permit. Consider renting cargo bikes (Christiania bikes) from rental shops, which are perfect for transporting kids and picnic supplies and very popular among locals. All parks are stroller-accessible with paved paths, though you'll need to navigate grass to reach good viewing spots. The central locations make it easy to combine screenings with daytime sightseeing in Copenhagen.