DOWNTOWN VAN’S FREE SUMMER MOVIE NIGHTS RETURNS FOR FIVE OUTDOOR SCREENINGS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – JUNE 26, 2026, 7 AM PST – (VANCOUVER, BC) – One of downtown Vancouver’s most anticipated summer traditions is back! Summer Movie Nights presented by Downtown Van with the generous support of Amazon returns to šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (formerly the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza) for five weeks of free outdoor films, live entertainment and family friendly fun from July 16 – August 13, 2026.
Each Thursday, the festivities will begin at 5:00 PM with themed activities and performances inspired by the evening’s feature film before the movie takes over a giant 33-foot inflatable screen at sundown.
“We’re excited to welcome Summer Movie Nights back to downtown Vancouver for another season,” said Jane Talbot, President and CEO of Downtown Van. “It has become a beloved summer tradition that brings people together in the heart of downtown to enjoy great movies, connect with one another, and create lasting memories. We’re looking forward to welcoming the community back for another season and can’t wait to share some of the surprises we have in store.”
2026 SUMMER MOVIE NIGHTS LINEUP
(Every Thursday)
July 16th – She’s The Man
July 23rd – The Hunger Games
July 30th – Wicked: For Good
August 6th – 13 Going On 30
August 13th – Ready Player One
Our opening night kicks off with the excitement of the world’s biggest sporting event taking place in Vancouver this summer, featuring She’s the Man—a soccer-inspired comedy filmed right here in our city. Attendees can look forward to a football-themed celebration featuring professional soccer jugglers, stilt walkers, interactive performances, and high energy entertainment inspired by the beautiful game.
For the July 23 screening of The Hunger Games, attendees will be transported to Panem through immersive pre-show entertainment, including a Hunger Games-inspired drag performance by Sleepy Queer Productions that captures the spectacle and drama of the Capitol.
In partnership with Pop Queen Cardio, audiences can enjoy an exciting lineup of performers and entertainers in honour of Pride for the July 30th screening of Wicked: For Good.
Don’t forget to bring your party hats and throwback fits for the August 6th screening of 13 Going On 30. It’ll be a nostalgic birthday-themed celebration that will take attendees right back to the late 1990s and early 2000s alongside special performances.
The movie series concludes with Ready Player One, where, in partnership with Vancouver Mysteries, attendees can take part in a live experience—searching for hidden keys and solving clues inspired by the film’s storyline.
All five Summer Movie Nights will also include:
- Summer Movie Nights mascot, Poppy
- MC by Alannah Brittany, a Vancouver-based comedian, actor, and producer
- Pre-movie trivia by Drew’s Clues
- Music by DJ Chip$
- Makemobile, a hands-on felting station
- Custom balloon art by Twistin’ Sam and facepainting for all ages by Crimson Makeup
- Moonlit Memories’ free photobooth, plus a new roving photographer experience
If you attend four or more Movie Nights, you can be entered to win a one-night stay at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver, including breakfast for two. Just pick up your stamp card at the information tent on site.
For more tips, news, and regular updates on shows and schedules, visit:
Website: www.dtvan.ca/events/summermovienights/
Instagram: @summermovienightsvan
2026 SPONSORS
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Amazon.
Thank you to Silver Sponsor, Bentall Centre.
About Bentall Centre
Bentall Centre is a 1.5 million-square-foot office and retail campus in Vancouver’s central business district. It has been a landmark destination for Vancouver’s leading companies and includes offerings such as reactivated public spaces, community events, arts, and culture programming. Bentall Centre is co-owned and operated by Hudson Pacific Properties.
Website https://www.bentallcentre.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bentallcentreyvr/
Facebook https://m.facebook.com/BentallCentreYVR
Thank you to our official Media Sponsor, Plug Vancouver.
About Plug Vancouver
Plug Vancouver is a hyper-local media and events company dedicated to amplifying the people, places, and subcultures that shape the city. Through original storytelling, digital content, and cultural coverage, Plug Vancouver has become a go-to source for those seeking an unfiltered lens into Vancouver. Rooted in creating experiences that spark connection and culture, the Plug continues to grow as one of the city’s most engaged and recognizable media networks.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plugvancouver
Website: https://www.plugvancouver.com
Thank you to our official TV Media Sponsor, Global BC.
About Global BC
Global BC is proud to sponsor this year’s Summer Movie Nights.
For over 65 years, Global News has been a trusted source for local news, weather, and community stories across the province. From Global Hour at 6 with Sophie Lui and Chris Gailus to BC1, our 24-hour news channel, Global News delivers more local news than any other newscast. Global News is dedicated to delivering trusted, fact-based journalism that helps British Columbians stay informed and connected to the issues that matter most. Backed by an award-winning team of journalists, we go beyond the headlines to provide context, accountability, and meaningful local coverage.
About Downtown Van
Downtown Van is a non-profit organization representing 8,000+ businesses and property owners in the central 90-block area of Vancouver’s downtown core. Supporting them and making downtown Vancouver a place where everyone feels welcome drives us. Our team members are economic development, community safety, placemaking, and events experts. They’re passionate about making downtown Vancouver a destination like no other. Learn more at www.dtvan.ca @downtownvan