Cinema under the stars

Published on 15 August 2023

Back by popular demand the City of Hobart presents the pop-up drive-in cinema at the Royal Hobart Regatta Grounds for three big nights of film magic.

Three feature-length films will be shown over three nights on a 10m-wide outdoor screen.

Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said while the event was family friendly, everyone was welcome.

“Last year we had couples out on a date night, young people on their P’s getting together with their mates as well as families looking for some fun for the kids,” Cr Reynolds said.

“It’s not just about the movies. It’s also about the atmosphere. There is something nostalgic about a drive-in cinema, even if you were too young to experience it the first time around.”

Creative City Portfolio Chair Cr John Kelly said it was a great opportunity for kids and young people to experience a cultural phenomenon from the past.

“Watching a film under the stars in your own vehicle is a magical experience,” Cr Kelly said.

“You can bring your own snacks or make the most of the food vans serving hot food, desserts, non-alcoholic drinks and movie classics such as popcorn.”

The three-night program will kick off on Friday with cult classic romance the Princess Bride.

On Saturday, the animated adventure Happy Feet from Australian director George Miller, follows Mumble, an emperor penguin who while unable to sing can tap dance brilliantly.

Finally, the much-loved Spielberg classic E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial will round out the weekend on Sunday evening.

Admission is free but space is limited and will be allocated on a first-in, first-served basis.

When: Friday 18 August 7pm, Saturday 19 August 7pm and Sunday 20 August 6.30pm.

Where: Royal Hobart Regatta Grounds, McVilly Drive, Hobart.

Gates open at 6pm for 7pm screenings on Friday and Saturday night, and open 5.30pm Sunday for a 6.30pm start.

Hobart Drive-in Cinema is a free event, and part of the City's Out in the Open program designed to get you out of the house and into Hobart's parks and streets.

Hobartcity.com.au/out-in-the-open