Did you know that outdoor cinema is already over a century old? It’s been rocking in Broome, Australia, since 1916—a Guinness World Record! The first drive-in theatre came much later, in 1933, in New Jersey.
If you’re in Dublin, you can easily watch a movie under the twinkling stars here with a touch of Irish magic.
The city’s got some top-notch outdoor cinemas you shouldn’t miss, and we’ve rounded them up for you below!
What are the most popular outdoor cinemas in Dublin?
There are many popular outdoor cinemas in Dublin. Notable ones include Retro Drive-in Movies, Pop-Up Drive-In, Underground Cinema, and Happenings On-Air Cinema.
Amp up your movie nights when you visit these Dublin outdoor cinemas below!
Retro Drive-in
Rolling into the nostalgia lane, Retro Drive-in Movies is like a time-traveling Dublin outdoor cinema on wheels. It also snagged several awards for delivering the best cinematic experience.
It all started in 2015, when a bunch of dreamers decided, ‘Why not make the biggest drive-in in Ireland?’ And voila, here we are!
They’ve even taken their cinematic show to Dublin Airport because, why fly when you can watch a movie from your car?
You can roll up to the cinema for the full-on movie night vibe! Picture this: you pull in, grab a burger, pizza, coffee, doughnut, popcorn, or chips with dips—all while chilling in your car!
Throughout it all, you’ll get to tune in to the movie through your car’s FM radio. It’s like bringing the theatre right to your ride!
This makes Retro Drive-in Movies a sustainable cinema joyride. Using your car’s FM radio for audio keeps it eco-friendly by ditching extra power sources. It’s like movie magic under the stars, with a green thumbs-up from Mother Nature!
Pro Tips:
Parking spaces are assigned on a first come, first served basis at Retro Drive-in in Dublin, without any VIP or pre-booked options. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure a parking spot. If you’ve got a big ride, the cinema has special spots for your cinematic chariot. And hey, everyone’s playing the cosy game. So park close, and let’s make sure that movie screen is the main event for everyone!
Underground Cinema and OutdoorMovies.ie
OutdoorMovies.ie is a leading event production company that whips up cool open-air and pop-up cinema shindigs in Dublin and all across Ireland.
They can turn any space, be it a parking lot or your buddy’s backyard, into a cinema that can offer movie magic for up to 2000 people!
It’s sister company, Underground Cinema, used to air movies in Roundwood, bringing the big screen to cosy spots.
State-of-the-art projectors, sound systems, and inflatable screens—they’ve got it all, like a movie magician’s toolkit.
Pro Tips:
If you’re planning to host an outdoor movie screening in Dublin, Outdoormovies.ie recommends scheduling it at dusk or after darkness falls for optimal viewing.To know the ideal screening time for your romantic date, Google the sunset time of your chosen day. Then, plan your outdoor cinema experience to coincide with Dublin’s breathtaking transition from daylight to starry night.
Happenings On-Air Cinema
Happenings On-Air Cinema is more than just an outdoor cinema in Dublin. It’s where stars light up the screen, local snacks steal the show, and fun with your mates takes centre stage—all under the Dublin sky, powered by the sun!
Since 2009, the folks there have been turning parks into movie magic spaces. Classics, modern hits, laughter, tears—they’ve got the whole emotional rollercoaster.
Oh, and here’s the family-friendly scoop: Happenings On-Air Cinema keeps it chill with mostly PG (parental guidance) or Universal-rated films. So, it’s a pretty safe bet that your movie night under the stars is a go for all ages!
This cinema is also all about the eco vibe. They power up with renewable battery tech (think Solar Cinema!).
And if you’re thinking of camping out for the night, no worries. They’ve got security at the gates, making sure everyone stays safe and sound.
Pro Tips:
If you love surprises and want to enjoy the sunny days in Ireland, sign up for the Happenings community and get notified of spontaneous events that are organised 48 hours beforehand!
Pop-Up Drive-in Movies
If you’ve ever fancied watching movies al fresco in Dublin, you might’ve caught wind of these cool events: the Pop-Up Drive-in at Junction 6 Castleknock serves up superheroes and horror flicks right to your car window.
These drive-in movies flex the largest LED screen in Ireland, showcasing blockbusters and family faves.
Just imagine the thrill of witnessing your favourite heroes in larger-than-life action or the suspense of a horror film enveloping your surroundings!
Outdoor Movies in the Park transformed Marlay Park into a magical cinema, where you could bring your own picnic and blankets and watch classics and recent releases on a huge screen.
And for the kiddos, Outdoor Cinema Club rolls out the red carpet every Sunday in September at Meeting House Square. Plus, they’ll get to munch on yummy snacks, sip on refreshing drinks, and meet some of their favourite characters.
Pro Tip:
To get the best spot and enjoy the pre-show entertainment at Pop-Up Drive-in Movies, it’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes before the movie starts.
You may order food and drinks from the on-site vendors or bring your own popcorn, chocolates, nachos, hot dogs, candies, and the like!