Get your picnic blankets ready, folks! The Paramount+ Movie Nights at Bryant Park are making a comeback, and they are bringing all the summer vibes with them. Starting from June 9, all New Yorkers from every borough can once again gather under the stars for one of the city’s top traditions: outdoor movies in the heart of Midtown. And guess what? It’s all free of charge!
Who would have thought, right? So, whether you want to bring the kids along or catch up with friends, Bryant Park Movie Nights offer a much-needed, simple, and budget-friendly way to enjoy a movie al fresco. No need to worry about tickets or reservations; just show up, find a cozy spot, and get ready for a classic NYC summer experience.
Plan Your Evening
Picture this: Monday nights from June 9 to August 11, Bryant Park transforms into an open-air movie theater smack dab in the middle of Midtown. The lawn gates swing open at 5 pm, giving you a few hours to snag a prime location. Then, grab your blanket, kick back, and grab a bite to eat before the movie kicks off at 8 pm.
Now, you don’t have to pack a whole picnic basket unless you’re feeling extra fancy. Vendors from the Hester Street Fair will be on-site with all sorts of food and snack options. And if you’re craving a drink, Stout NYC has you covered with beer, wine, and summer spritzes.
This Summer’s Lineup
Let’s talk movies, shall we? This summer’s film schedule is quite the mix, from ’80s teen nostalgia to epic sci-fi and even some Oscar-winning dramas. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s playing:
• Pretty in Pink | June 9
• The Wood | June 16
• Kinky Boots | June 23
• Stand by Me | June 30
• Good Will Hunting | July 7
• Interstellar | July 14
• Ghost | July 21
• Pulp Fiction | July 28
• Blades of Glory | August 4
• The Godfather | August 11
A Few Pro Tips Before You Go
Now, here’s the deal, folks. To make the most of your movie night, a few things are worth noting. Firstly, get there early. While the lawn officially opens at 5 pm, the early bird catches the worm, or in this case, the best spot. Trust me; it fills up quicker than you can say “popcorn.”
Bring along a picnic blanket or a low-to-the-ground lawn chair for maximum comfort. Oh, and a heads up—leave those tall chairs at home; they’re a no-go as they block the view for everyone else. Feel free to bring your snacks, or if you prefer to travel light, the Hester Street Fair vendors have you sorted. And don’t forget to label your stuff—jackets, bags, water bottles—especially if you’re rolling with a crew. Things can get a tad chaotic with so many people around.
Lastly, throw in a bottle of bug spray just in case. Most nights are fine, but better safe than sorry, especially during those muggy late summer evenings. So, ready to kick off a new summer tradition or continue an old one at Bryant Park? Trust me; once the screen lights up and the city skyline glows, you’ll be hooked. After all, as Dan Biederman, president of Bryant Park Corporation, says, “Movie Nights bring strangers together and turn them into neighbors on the lawn.” Sounds pretty magical, right?
For full details, head over to bryantpark.org and get ready for an unforgettable movie night under the stars.
