When summer hits its stride in France, the streets stay bright long into the evening, and the rhythm of life slows down. Locals head outdoors to eat, drink, and gather—and one of the most beloved warm-weather rituals is the open-air movie night. While Paris offers the most iconic experiences, you’ll find rooftop screenings, beachside projections, and countryside cinema popping up across the country. Whether you’re a film lover, a romantic, or just looking for a unique way to spend a summer evening, here are the best ways to catch a movie under the stars in France this July and August.

1. “Cinéma en Plein Air” at Parc de la Villette, Paris

France’s most iconic open-air film festival, this annual event transforms the wide green expanse of Parc de la Villette in northeast Paris into a massive outdoor cinema. Every evening during the festival, hundreds gather with picnic baskets and blankets to watch films projected on a giant inflatable screen.

• This Year’s Theme (2025): "Rêves et Réalités" (Dreams and Realities) explores surrealism, alternative worlds, and dreamlike storytelling. Expect screenings of films like Inception, Pan’s Labyrinth, La La Land, and Brazil, as well as French classics by directors like Jean-Pierre Jeunet.
• Atmosphere: Relaxed, local, and social. Groups of friends, families, and solo travelers mingle over wine and cheese before the film begins.
• Practical Info:
  • Dates: July 17 – August 18, 2025
  • Location: Parc de la Villette, 19th arrondissement, Paris
  • Entry: Free; deckchairs available to rent for a small fee (reserve online if possible)
  • Best Time to Arrive: At least 1 hour before sunset to secure a good spot.
• Local Tip: Bring a light jacket or scarf—the temperature can drop after dark, even in summer.

2. Rooftop Screenings at Le Perchoir, Paris

Tucked away above a nondescript building in the 11th arrondissement, Le Perchoir is one of Paris’s most stylish rooftop bars—and during select summer evenings, it transforms into a cinematic perch with spectacular views of the city skyline.

• What Makes It Special: The intimate size, hip vibe, and unbeatable rooftop setting. Imagine sipping a cocktail as the Eiffel Tower glimmers in the distance and a cult film flickers to life on screen.
• Typical Films: A curated mix of French arthouse favorites, nostalgic 90s hits, and indie gems—think Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain, The Grand Budapest Hotel, or Before Sunrise.
• Food & Drinks: Le Perchoir offers a solid menu of creative cocktails, wines, and small bites. It’s as much a night out as a film screening.
• How to Attend:
  • Screenings aren’t held every night—check Le Perchoir’s Instagram or website for announcements.
  • Events often require reservations, and spots fill up quickly.
• Other Locations: The Perchoir group also runs rooftops in the Marais and at Gare de l’Est, which sometimes host cinema events as well.

3. Cinéma sur la Plage – Cannes

After the glitz and glamor of the Cannes Film Festival ends in May, the town doesn’t go quiet. Instead, summer evenings see the return of Cinéma de la Plage—a free, open-air film series set directly on the beach, with the sea as your backdrop and stars above.

• The Experience: You grab a towel or beach chair, settle in on the sand, and watch classic or contemporary films as the waves lap nearby. It’s romantic, relaxed, and undeniably cinematic.
• Programming: The selection usually includes Cannes Film Festival favorites, restored film classics, and French crowd-pleasers, sometimes introduced by directors or actors in person.
• When & Where:
  • Dates: Typically late July through mid-August
  • Location: Plage Macé, just off the Croisette promenade
  • Admission: Free and open to all; chairs available in limited supply
• Traveler Tip: Arrive well before sundown to claim a good spot. Pack a small picnic, and don't forget mosquito repellent.

4. Roman Ruins & Reel Time – Nîmes and Arles

What could be more atmospheric than watching a film where gladiators once stood? In southern France, you’ll find ancient Roman amphitheaters hosting outdoor cultural events—including occasional movie nights.

• Nîmes – The Arena (Arènes de Nîmes): While primarily a venue for concerts and live shows, the arena has hosted special cinema events, particularly during cultural festivals. Check listings during Festival de Nîmes or Nuits de Nemaus.
• Arles – Théâtre Antique: During Les Rencontres de la Photographie, Arles’s ancient open-air Roman theater hosts multimedia shows, some incorporating short films and documentaries.
• Why It’s Worth It: You’re watching cinema inside UNESCO-listed heritage sites, surrounded by centuries of history and the glow of lanterns.
• Tip: Tickets are sometimes free, but for special events, they may need to be booked through local tourism offices.

5. Countryside Cinema – Dordogne, Alsace, and Offbeat Regions

In the smaller towns and rural regions of France, local film nights offer an ultra-authentic and often magical way to experience cinema—and community.

• Dordogne: Many towns and castles (like Château de Castelnaud or Château de Commarque) host cinéma en plein air evenings. Expect screenings projected against ancient stone walls, with local food trucks and wine stands.
• Alsace – Vins et Films: A growing number of wineries are pairing their tastings with outdoor movie nights among the vines. Bring a blanket and a glass of Gewürztraminer for the perfect evening.
• Occitanie & Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Town squares turn into theaters with mobile screens as part of local cultural programs. These events are usually free and incredibly welcoming to visitors.
• How to Find Them: Check local tourist office websites, community Facebook pages, or ask at your gîte or hotel—these events are often under the radar.

Insider Tips for Enjoying Outdoor Cinema in France

Language Tips:
Look for VOSTF on programs – this means the film is in its original version (e.g., English) with French subtitles. “VF” means it’s dubbed in French.

What to Bring:

• Blanket or lightweight camping chair
• ● Sweater or scarf (nights can be cooler than you expect)
• ● Mosquito repellent
• ● A reusable cup or glass for wine or drinks
• ● Snacks or a full picnic – and yes, wine is usually welcome unless stated otherwise

Getting There:
Outdoor screenings are often accessible by metro or public transport in cities. For countryside events, plan for a car rental or taxi, as they’re usually in remote areas.

Final Scene

Outdoor cinema in France isn’t just about the films—it’s about the setting, the stillness of summer nights, and the feeling of watching a story unfold under the stars. Whether you’re on a rooftop in Paris, nestled on a beach in Cannes, or surrounded by Roman stone in Arles, these experiences offer a magical way to tap into France’s deep love for both film and living well

So skip the tourist traps and join the locals. Pack a blanket, grab some wine, and find your seat under the sky. The opening credits are about to roll.