Open Air Cinemas in Cape Town: Savour the smell fresh air and popcorn

Open Air Cinemas in the Western Cape has become synonymous with the start of summer since its provincial inception over a decade ago. This summer, returning for its 12th season, will certainly be no exception with promises of unique movie-magic entertainment on the backdrop of some dreamy locations.

Also read: The Last Seed: A cinematic journey through Africa’s food and agriculture crises

Before the movie starts, indulge in a pre-movie picnic at location-specific mini-markets, offering tasty options like pizzas, juicy burgers, tender wraps, popcorn and other delicious snacks. Catering to many tastebuds, there are vegetarian and halaal choices available too.

Quench your thirst with cafe-styled coffee, alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, all conveniently available at the venues. Prepare your stomach and eyes for an unforgettable cinematic experience unde the open skies.

Showcasing a series of blockbuster hits, family favourites, heart-warming romcoms, upbeat comedies, adored musicals and more, here are ten of the best Open Air Cinema locations across the Western Cape:

Backsberg Family Wines

Discover the enchanting Franschhoek Open Air Cinema at Backsberg Family Wines, a true gem on the renowned wine route.

With a perfect blend of rustic tranquility and refined surroundings, it promises an unforgettable experience. The doors welcome you at 5pm, giving you ample time to secure the perfect spot underneath the twinkling stars.

Immerse yourself in the magic of watching a film under the open sky. Treat your tastebuds to many treats and beverages while live music and engaging games add to the excitement.

Mark your calendars for the rotating Saturdays and be ready to create cherished memories with your loved ones in this magical setting.

• Location: Main Road, Franschhoek
• Date: Rotating Saturdays
• Time: Doors open at 5pm

Picture: Backsberg / Facebook

Blaauwklippen Wine Estate

Located on the slopes of Stellenbosch Mountain, one of South Africa’s oldest wine farms, with a history dating back to 1682, Blaauwklippen Wine Estate, opens its doors for an evening of bliss and a captivating Open Air Cinema experience.

Early arrival is recommended to secure a seat and indulge in the vibrant Blaauwklippen Market.

Hearty meals and beverages await moviegoers. Interactive games and music further enhances the ambience before the film’s airing. As the sun sets and the movie begins, be captured by this unique adventure on rotating Saturdays.

• Location: Strand Road, R44, Stellenbosch
• Date: Rotating Saturdays
• Time: Doors open at 5pm

Picture: Blaauwklippen Vineyards / Facebook

Central Park

Tucked away within the scenic beauty of Century City, the Central Park Open Air Cinema experience offers a tranquil retreat with its many walkways, perfect for leisurely strolls before the movie begins.

You can easily explore the many hidden gems around Century City, including the unique artwork scattered across the area. As the clock strikes, the cinema’s doors swing open, inviting you to a memorable evening.

Arriving early is a must if you want to secure your ideal spot and enjoy the pre-movie market experience. Savour the delicious cuisine and beverages on offer at the Central Park Clubhouse while enjoying the ambiance of the evening festivities.

As the sun gracefully sets, the movie begins.

• Location: Central Park, Century City
• Date: Rotating Fridays
• Time: Doors open at 6pm

Picture: The Galileo Open Air Cinema / Facebook

Glenelly Estate

Experience the charm of Glenelly Estate’s Stellenbosch Open Air Cinema, located on the picturesque Simonsberg Mountain slopes.

A short distance from central Stellenbosch, the venue invites film fanatics into an iconic wine farm filled with lush green lawns and scenic vineyards stretching out towards the horizon.

Don’t let tardiness hinder your ultimate open-air evening, as early arrival is encouraged. Once you’ve arrived, secured your spot with a blanket, along with a few pillows for extra comfort, feel free to explore the farm’s landscape.

While strolling, you’ll find many delectable snaks and beverages on sale along with calming music to set the overall mood for the evening.

The real magic begins as the sun says its final goodbye, and the movie lights up the outdoor screen.

• Location: Ida’s Valley, Lelie Street, Stellenbosch
• Date: Rotating Saturdays
• Time: Doors open at 5pm

Picture: The Galileo Open Air Cinema / Facebook

Kirstenbosch Gardens

Immerse yourself in a magical movie night at the iconic Kirstenbosch Gardens Galileo Open Air Cinema with majestic Table Mountain as your backdrop and surrounded by one of Africa’s most beautiful gardens, renowned for its national treasures.

You can enjoy a delightful evening filled with romance and entertainment under the clear night sky. What’s more, this unique spot is completely sheltered from the wind, so you can relax and savour the film without worrying about the Cape Doctor’s gusts.

Don’t miss out on this wonderful venue for an awesome movie night which occurs on weekdays.

• Location: Rhodes Drive, Newlands
• Date: Weekdays
• Time: Doors open at 5pm

Picture: The Galileo Open Air Cinema / Facebook

Knorhoek Wine Farm

Located along the scenic wine route lies the understated Knorhoek Wine Farm.

With its 200 hectares of vineyards, the farm invites you to wander, unwind and relax in nature’s beauty. Indulge in the taste of three exquisite farm wines and relish the farm’s fresh produce at the deli, before indulging in a unique open-air cinematic experience.

Family-friendly as always, the kids are well catered for with family-friendly movie options, interactive games and they’ll have a blast exploring the gardens and grounds.

As night falls, the Open Air Cinema sets the stage for a memorable evening.

• Location: Knorhoek Road, R44, Stellenbosch
• Date: Rotating Saturdays
• Time: Doors open at 5pm

Picture: Knorhoek Wine Farm / Facebook

L’Avenir Estate

Although the farm was originally founded by a group of European settlers in the late 17th century, the winery was given a new lease of life 31 years ago. In 1993, Mauritian businessman, Mark Wiehe, transformed the farm into what it is today – an idyllic location for an outdoor movie night.

Positioned at the base of the Simonsberg mountain, a short five-kilometre drive from Stellenbosch, this gem hosts an unforgettable Open Air Cinema. As the sun sets, the silver screen comes alive with a captivating movie framed by an awe-inspiring view of the mountains.

• Location: Off R44, Klapmuts Road, R44
• Date: Rotating Saturdays
• Time: Doors open at 5pm

Picture: The Galileo Open Air Cinema / Facebook

Plaisir Wine Estate

Experience the classic elegance of Plaisir Wine Estate in Franschhoek. The picturesque setting at the foot of Simonsberg mountain creates a truly unique Open Air Cinema event.

Adorned with lush greenery and colourful flora, this environment sets the perfect ambiance for film enthusiasts. Early arrival is encouraged to get your seats and enjoy the Plaisir Market.

As the sun sets, the movie commences, and you are sure to have an unforgettable evening.

Remember, outside food and drinks are not permitted and bags will be checked at the entrance.

• Location: R45, Simondium
• Date: Rotating Saturdays
• Time: Doors open at 5pm

Picture: Plaisir Wine Estate / Facebook

Nederburg Wine Farm

Come and experience the magic of Nederburg Wine Farm’s Paarl Open Air Cinema, tucked away just outside Paarl with stunning views of the Drakenstein mountains.

Pre-movie pizzas, mini-burgers, wraps and popcorn will be available for purchase. Movie watchers are encouraged to bring their own picnic basket, but remember, no alcohol is allowed on the premises.

The movie starts once the sun gives way to the moonlight, creating a truly enchanting experience.

Don’t miss this event if you want to do something interesting when the summer months roll around again.

• Location: Sonstraal Road, Paarl
• Date: Rotating Saturdays
• Time: Doors open at 5pm

Picture: The Galileo Open Air Cinema / Facebook

Rhebokskloof Wine Estate

Discover the charm of Rhebokskloof Wine Estate in Paarl, perfect for picnics and family outings thanks to the historic estate’s vast, lush lawns – and, of course, a star-spangled open-air movie night.

What could be better than soaking in the historic wine estate’s magnificent backdrop, sitting beside your loved ones while you munch on snacks and watch your favourite movies? Be sure to arrive early to secure your spot beneath the wandering stars for the night sky.

Indulge in a variety of food and beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, while participating in interactive games and enjoying lively music.

The movie screening starts after sunset. Join in the fun and create an unforgettable escape at Rhebokskloof Wine Estate’s enchanting Open Air Cinema.

• Location: Noord Agter – Paarl Road, windmeul
• Date: Rotating Saturdays
• Time: Doors open at 5pm

Picture: The Galileo Open Air Cinema / Facebook

Also read:

In the mood for theatrics? Here’s what’s on at the Artscape this August

Picture: The Galileo Open Air Cinema / Facebook

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