Amman International Film Festival

About

The Amman International Film Festival brings cinema magic under the stars with outdoor screenings perfect for introducing children to world cinema in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. This annual cultural event showcases carefully curated short films, documentaries, and family-appropriate features that celebrate storytelling from Jordan and around the globe. Parents can enjoy quality films while kids experience the unique thrill of watching movies outdoors in one of the Middle East's most welcoming capital cities.

What to Expect

Families will find outdoor screenings set up in atmospheric venues including downtown Amman locations and cultural spaces, with screenings typically beginning after sunset when temperatures cool. The festival atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with local families spreading blankets and settling in for evening entertainment. Family-friendly film selections are clearly marked in the program, with many shorts and animated films scheduled earlier in the evening. English subtitles are available for most international films, and some screenings feature English-language films. The vibe is social and community-oriented, with children welcome to move around quietly during films.

Highlights for Kids

• Watching movies under the stars in warm Mediterranean summer evenings with a backdrop of Amman's historic architecture
• Experiencing short animated films and documentaries from countries kids may never have encountered, sparking curiosity about world cultures
• The relaxed atmosphere where kids can enjoy snacks and quietly interact without the strict rules of traditional indoor cinemas
• Meeting local Jordanian families and experiencing cinema as a community event in Middle Eastern culture
• Post-screening Q&A sessions with filmmakers at select screenings, offering older kids insight into the creative process

Pro Tips for Families

1. Check the festival program online in advance for English-language or subtitled family films, and arrive 30-45 minutes early to outdoor screenings to secure good seating spots as popular films fill up quickly
2. Bring cushions or a light blanket to sit on, as outdoor venues may have limited seating; also pack layers as Amman evenings can cool down significantly after sunset, especially during the festival's typical summer timing
3. Download the festival app or check social media for real-time updates on schedule changes, as outdoor screenings may be moved indoors if weather is uncertain
4. Consider attending midweek screenings which tend to be less crowded than weekend events, and pair your festival visit with exploring downtown Amman's Roman Theatre and nearby cafes before evening screenings

Best Time to Visit

Attend family-friendly screenings scheduled earlier in the evening (typically 7-8 PM start times) rather than late-night programs. Midweek evenings (Tuesday-Thursday) offer smaller crowds and easier parking than weekend screenings. If staying multiple days, check the schedule for dedicated children's programming blocks which are often grouped together on specific festival days.

Food & Drinks

Food options vary by venue, with some outdoor locations allowing families to bring their own snacks and drinks, while others have vendors selling popcorn, sandwiches, and local treats like falafel wraps and fresh juice. Downtown venues are surrounded by cafes and shawarma restaurants where families can grab dinner before screenings. It's advisable to bring water bottles as Amman evenings can be warm, and kid-friendly snacks from local supermarkets (Carrefour, Safeway) are inexpensive. Tea and coffee are typically available at venues, and trying local sweets like knafeh from nearby shops makes a special treat for kids after the screening.

Parking & Access

Parking in downtown Amman can be challenging; consider using ride-sharing apps like Careem or Uber, which are reliable and affordable in Amman (rides typically 3-5 JOD within the city). Many festival venues are within walking distance of each other in the downtown area, though streets can be hilly and uneven—lightweight umbrella strollers work better than full-size models. Taxis are plentiful and drivers generally speak some English; agree on fares before departing or insist on using the meter. If driving, arrive early and look for public parking lots near Al-Hussein Cultural Center or Ras Al-Ain, then walk to venues. Most outdoor venues have step-free access, but cobblestones in historic areas may challenge stroller navigation.