Family Movie Nights and Outdoor Screenings in the DMV
Finding Dory at the Georgetown Waterfront
Finding Dory turns 10, screened free on the waterfront with the Potomac behind the screen. Bring a blanket.
Past events
These already happened. We keep them here so you can see what this category looks like across the year, and so you know what to watch for next season.
"The Pigeon Comes to Washington, DC!" Exhibit
Mo Willems' beloved Pigeon has taken over the National Museum of American History! An interactive exhibit kids (and parents) will absolutely love.
Sunset Cinema: 10 Things I Hate About You
The 90s classic free on Transit Pier: the rare movie night the tween approves. Chairs at 7, movie at 7:30.
Apollo 13 at the Library of Congress
The space classic on the Jefferson Building lawn with a Stanley Clarke recording at 7pm. Free, no tickets, come early.
The Princess Diaries at Audi Field
A free movie ON the field where DC United plays. Stadium screen, concessions open. Reserve free tickets ahead.
Sunset Cinema: Roman Holiday
Audrey Hepburn's runaway-princess classic, free on Transit Pier. Chairs at 7pm, movie 7:30, Wharf dinner welcome.
A League of Their Own at the Library of Congress
The baseball classic free on the Jefferson Building lawn, with the Nationals' organist live at 7pm. Arrive early.
Sunset Cinema: Apollo 13
Free space classic on Transit Pier at The Wharf. Chairs at 7pm, movie 7:30, dinner from any Wharf spot welcome.
Otakon 2026
The giant anime and gaming convention downtown. Cosplay everywhere, game halls, artist alley. Kids 8 and under free with an adult.
Back to the Future at the Library of Congress
Free screening on the Jefferson Building lawn with live jazz at 7pm. No tickets; the lawn closes when full, so come early.
Sunset Cinema: Catch Me If You Can
Free movie on Transit Pier with the channel behind the screen. Chairs at 7pm, film at 7:30. PG-13, best for tweens and teens.
Mosaic District: Films in the Park
Free outdoor movie on a big screen at Strawberry Park. Bring a blanket and grab dinner at Mosaic first.
Library of Congress Film: Clueless
The Library of Congress screens Clueless on the lawn with a live performance at 7pm. Free, no tickets needed.
Shrek 2 Outdoor Movie at The Wharf
Free outdoor screening of Shrek 2 on the waterfront at The Wharf. Bring blankets, grab dinner from nearby restaurants, and settle in for a fun family movie night.
Pirates of the Caribbean, Outdoor Movie Night
Free outdoor movie screening at Alethia Tanner Park in NoMa. Bring blankets and snacks for a fun evening under the stars.
PAW Patrol Live!
Your favorite pups come to life on stage! Chase, Skye, Marshall, and the whole rescue team perform live action and adventure. A must-see for any PAW Patrol fan.
Virginia Renaissance Faire
Jousting knights, fire performers, jesters, and theatrical shows every weekend. An unforgettable live performance experience for the whole family.
Sunset Cinema at The Wharf
Free outdoor movie night on the waterfront. Bring blankets and grab dinner from nearby restaurants before the show starts at sundown.
Free Outdoor Movie: Hairspray at The Wharf DC
Free outdoor screening of Hairspray on the waterfront at The Wharf. Grab dinner nearby, bring blankets, and enjoy the show at sundown.
Free Movie: Shang-Chi at Kennedy Center
Free outdoor screening of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings at the Kennedy Center REACH campus. Bring a blanket and settle in.
Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor
Free outdoor movie night at National Harbor on the waterfront. Pack chairs or blankets and enjoy a family movie under the stars.
CiNoMatic Outdoor Movie: Top Gun
Free outdoor screening of Top Gun at Alethia Tanner Park in NoMa, DC. Hosted by Alamo Drafthouse with lawn games and food vendors.
Drive-In at Union Market
Drive-In at Union Market on May 8, 2026. Watch Mulan from your car or blankets. $25 per car or free on foot. Monthly screenings all summer.
Free Outdoor Movies at the REACH
Free outdoor movie screenings at the Kennedy Center REACH every Friday, starting May 30.