Pop-up and outdoor cinemas in Melbourne

Pop-up cinema season is back! Check out these yearly events and brand new blockbuster experiences.

People sitting on the grass at an outdoor cinema

Moonlight Cinema

Until 30 Mar

This ever-popular experience in the Royal Botanic Gardens is back. Get your picnic rug ready for films like Gladiator II, Wicked, Love Actually and The Holiday. There’s a licensed bar, candy bar and food trucks on-site too. Even better? You can bring your dog!

Capitol Cinema interior with brilliant pink lighting and large illumainted screen.

Christmas Cinema

Until 22 Dec

Grab the popcorn, this pop-up cinema is dishing up classic Christmas movies. Book $5 tickets and head to the stunning Capitol Theatre for festive films including Home Alone, The Muppet Christmas Carol and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. The best bit? All proceeds go to local food relief initiatives.

People gathered in the main plaza at Fed Square, seated on deck chairs or rugs, facing towards the big screen and watching a Christmas movie.

Christmas Outdoor Cinema

Until 23 Dec

Cross your fingers for fine December weather and settle in at Fed Square's free open-air cinema. Grab a deck chair or bring a picnic rug for an evening of free family fun. A lineup of cult-status Christmas flicks are playing on the big screen. Think The Santa Clause, Elf and The Polar Express.

The AFL premiership cup in front of Marvel Stadium and two Christmas trees.

Nth Pole

Until 23 Dec

Marvel Stadium is being transformed into the North Pole this Christmas. Snap a pic with the AFL team-themed trees, then head to Santa’s 360° Cinema Dome. This pop-up cinema is screening two immersive 22-minute Christmas films. Fly through the sky with Santa in “What Santa Sees” and then experience the magic of the “Snowflake Adventure”.

Still from a movie with two Hollywood actors - Gregory Peck and Ingrid Bergman - with their heads touching in an affectionate pose; black and white 1950s style.

Matinees

Until 31 Dec

Calling all classic film buffs. Melbourne's own home of film ACMI has an epic lineup of movies for only $9. See old Hollywood flicks, arthouse restorations, documentaries and musicals on the big screen.