It’s starting to get easier to escape reality – at least through the silver screen. As pandemic restrictions loosen across the D.C. region, some local movie theaters are reopening, and there are several ways to catch a film indoors or under the stars. (Just make sure you’re not sitting under a tree.)
Below, a list of the venues around the DMV showing movies this summer.
LOCAL MOVIE THEATERS
AMC Theatres: Washington movie theaters can now open at 25% capacity, and some are resuming operations. That includes the AMC chain, which has locations in Courthouse, Georgetown, and Alexandria, among other neighborhoods. Upcoming showings at the Courthouse theater include “Nobody, Godzilla vs. Kong,” and “Back to the Future.” AMC’s Safe & Clean plan requires masks for all patrons (which can be removed while eating or drinking) and social distancing. In addition to reduced audience size, there are sanitization stations and more opportunities for touchless transactions.
Various locations.
Arlington Cinema & Draft House: This Arlington venue’s schedule is filling up again, and there are movies on the calendar. On May 16, for example, tickets are still available for “The Vertical Life Film Tour” ($12), and “Sopranos Sessions: A Special Theatrical Triple Feature” will show on May 19.
2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington.
Tysons Showplace ICON at The Boro: Take advantage of a welcome-back special at this McLean theater: Tickets are $8 for adults before 6 p.m., and $11 after 6 p.m. Seniors, kids, students, and members of the military pay $8 all day. Plus, food and drinks are 20% off. Films playing right now include “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” and “Wrath of Man.”
1667 Silver Hill Dr., McLean.
OUTDOOR MOVIE SCREENINGS
National Landing’s Movies in the Park
Athletic fields, meet movie theater. This spring, Virginia Highlands Park is showing adventure-oriented favorites such as “Mary Poppins Returns,” “Bill & Ted Face the Music,” and “Moana.” Attendance is free, but advance registration is required via Eventbrite. Masks and social distancing will be required.
Every Friday between May 14 through June 4 at 8 p.m.; 1600 South Hayes St., Arlington; FREE.
Several parks in Loudon County’s South Riding will be streaming family-friendly movies like “Sonic the Hedgehog” and Disney Pixar’s “Onward.” Organizers recommend bringing a blanket or chairs; no alcohol is permitted.
June 22 through Aug. 17 at 8 p.m.; various locations; FREE.
Evening Star Cafe movie nights
On Wednesday evenings, this popular café in Del Ray screens movies in its “back yard,” a pleasant area that’s been converted to outdoor dining space. Recent showings have included “Top Gun,” “A League of Their Own,” and “Groundhog Day.” There are a dozen tables, and reservations are suggested. Evening Star’s menu includes such dishes as mussels, steak frites, fried cauliflower, and a pork belly sandwich.
Wednesday nights; 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria; $25.
Cinematery – Dinner and a Movie
It’s unclear how many monsters reside at Congressional Cemetery, but this summer, plenty will make appearances – on the big screen, anyway. Prepare to tuck in among the tombstones and enjoy dinner and a movie. Expect meal options like a smoked turkey Cuban or roast beef sandwich, and films including “Frankenstein,” “The Mummy,” and “Wolf Man.” Social distancing is required, and masks must be worn at the entrance and exit. Tickets are limited to 100 (living) people.
June 4 (sold out), July 2, Aug. 6, Sept. 3; 1801 E St. SE.; $35.
Moonlight Movies: Flashback Fridays
Greenbelt’s springtime movie series is all about nostalgic favorites. Think: “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and “Moneyball.” Attendance is capped at 50 people, and advance registration is required. Masks must be worn at all times, except when eating or drinking. Speaking of which: Patrons can pre-order concessions for contactless pick-up. Organizers recommend bringing low chairs to help ensure everyone can see well.
Every Friday through May 28; Braden Field, 99 Centerway, Greenbelt, Md.; $25 per 10-foot “circle,” which can accommodate up to five people.
DRIVE-IN THEATERS
Capitol Riverfront Spring Drive-In Movie Series
The Capitol Riverfront BID’s movie line-up is inspired by post-pandemic goals: concerts, traveling, house parties, and other relics that have become distant memories. Upcoming selections include “Remember the Titans,” “Booksmart,” and “Bridesmaids.” Attendees must register ahead of time on Eventbrite, and there’s space for 100 vehicles. Organizers recommend grabbing takeout beforehand at a neighborhood restaurant, like Cava or Nando’s Peri-Peri.
Friday and Saturday nights at 8 p.m., through May 29; 101 V St. SW; $20 per car.
What began as a limited-series run last year has become one of Washington’s most popular drive-ins. The May line-up includes “Jaws,” “The Secret Life of Pets,” and “Shrek.” Part of the proceeds from each show benefit ATHENA Rapid Response Innovation Lab, an Alexandria non-profit. Vehicles are directed to specific spots when they arrive, and everyone in the car must be wearing a mask at the entrance gate. Patrons can use their phones to order from food trucks that are on-site.
Friday and Saturday nights between 8:30 and 9 p.m.; 5001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria; $40+ per car.
This D.C. staple is skipping the dramas this year and focusing on action flicks, comedies, and cult classics. Coming up: “Sister Act,” “Wonder Woman 1984,” and “Cruella.” No car, no problem: There’s space reserved for walk-ups to spread out chairs and blankets. Come hungry and choose among lots of food and drink selections, including from Som Tam, The Creamery, and Lucky Buns.
First Friday of every month from June 4 to Oct. 1; 1309 Fifth St. NE.; $20 per car.
Starlight Cinema by Fairfax County Parks Authority
Here’s something to look forward to: Four drive-in movies in Fairfax County, starting on July 7. The line-up will be announced by June 1. For now, enjoy the suspense and keep your calendar clear.
Saturdays at 7 p.m.; 5875 Trinity Pkwy., Centreville; FREE.
