Open-air cinema at La Villette

This is one of the essential summer meeting places in north east Paris. As the good weather arrives and the sun is setting later, the grass of the Parc de La Villette turns into a huge open-air cinema screening. With the blanket you may have wisely brought and some cushions (deckchairs are also available to rent on site for even more comfort), enjoy a full evening starting, why not, with a little picnic/aperitif before the films which follow a set theme.

A 2026 edition inspired by the magic of the forest

From 22 July to 16 August 2026, the Open-Air Cinema Festival at La Villette returns for its 35th edition, inviting families to enjoy summer evenings surrounded by nature in the heart of Paris. This year’s programme puts the spotlight on the forest, portrayed on screen as a place of wonder, adventure and calm, sometimes even taking centre stage as a character in its own right. A gentle and inspiring way to raise awareness of environmental issues, perfectly in tune with the park’s new 15,000 m² area dedicated to biodiversity.

More family-friendly than ever, the festival now offers two screenings each evening. At 6.00 pm, children can enjoy a film specially selected for young audiences, a great introduction to the magic of open-air cinema. At 9.00 pm, families can then come together for the main evening screening. From much-loved classics to more recent films, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

(All films are shown in original version with French subtitles).

Find out about other summer news in our Shows and special events section.