Open Air Cinema at Summer in the City

About

Summer in the City transforms London's parks into magical open-air cinemas where families can enjoy movies under the stars on warm summer evenings. This beloved seasonal event combines the excitement of outdoor entertainment with the charm of London's green spaces, creating unforgettable cinema experiences for kids and parents alike. With a mix of family-friendly films, relaxed picnic-style seating, and a vibrant community atmosphere, it's the perfect way to experience London's summer culture with children.

What to Expect

Families will enjoy a casual, laid-back atmosphere where kids can sit on blankets or in deck chairs while watching films on large outdoor screens as the sun sets. The venues, including the lively Gillett Square in Dalston, offer a community vibe with pre-show entertainment, music, and bustling energy. Children can move around more freely than in traditional cinemas, and the outdoor setting means less worry about noise. Screenings typically begin at dusk (around 8-9pm in summer), with the venue opening earlier for families to settle in, enjoy snacks, and soak up the atmosphere before the film starts.

Highlights for Kids

• Watching movies under the stars in iconic London parks creates a magical atmosphere that kids remember long after the credits roll
• The freedom to move around, chat quietly, and enjoy snacks without traditional cinema restrictions makes it stress-free for parents
• Pre-show entertainment including street performers, music, and games keeps children engaged while waiting for dusk
• The vibrant Dalston location offers a taste of London's creative, multicultural neighborhoods with unique energy and character
• Classic family films and recent animated favorites mean there's something for every age group throughout the summer series

Pro Tips for Families

1. Arrive at least 45 minutes early to secure a good spot, especially for popular family films—the best viewing areas fill up quickly and you'll want time to get comfortable before the show starts
2. Bring plenty of layers including warm jumpers, blankets, and even sleeping bags for kids as London evenings can turn surprisingly chilly even in summer, particularly once the sun sets around 9pm
3. Pack a picnic with favorite snacks and drinks to keep costs down, but check the venue's food policy beforehand—many allow outside food while also offering on-site vendors selling pizza, popcorn, and treats
4. Download the event schedule early and book tickets in advance online as popular screenings sell out, especially during school holidays in July and August

Best Time to Visit

Mid-July through August offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, with sunset around 9pm giving families time to settle in comfortably. Weekday evenings (Tuesday-Thursday) tend to be less crowded than weekends, making it easier to find good spots and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. If traveling with younger children, look for earlier screenings or matinee showings that some venues offer during school holidays. Avoid the first week of June when evenings can still be quite cool and sunset comes late.

Food & Drinks

Most open-air cinema venues allow families to bring their own picnics, which is the most budget-friendly and kid-friendly option—pack sandwiches, fruit, crisps, and treats your children actually enjoy. On-site food vendors typically offer pizza, burgers, popcorn, ice cream, and sweets, with vegetarian options usually available. Gillett Square in Dalston is surrounded by diverse restaurants and takeaways including Caribbean, Turkish, and Vietnamese options perfect for grabbing dinner before the show. Bring plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks that might lead to bathroom emergencies mid-film. Be prepared for London prices at vendors (£5-8 for main items), and note that alcohol is often available for adults but always check individual venue policies.

Parking & Access

Dalston is well-connected by London Overground (Dalston Junction and Dalston Kingsland stations both within 5-10 minutes walk) and multiple bus routes including the 30, 38, 56, and 242. Parking in Dalston is extremely limited and can be challenging—street parking is mostly residents-only or metered until 8:30pm. International visitors should plan to use public transport; consider getting an Oyster Card or using contactless payment for easy travel across London. The venues are generally accessible with strollers during arrival, but once inside, the grassy or paved areas work better with blankets than wheels. For families staying in central London, budget 30-40 minutes travel time. Uber or taxi drop-off is convenient for late-night returns with tired children.