Where to watch outdoor films in Shanghai

Free outdoor movie screenings are taking place across Shanghai this summer, with films shown at riverside venues, shopping centers, and op en plazas. Whether you're planning an outing with family or friends, here's where to catch a film under the stars.

1  Gate M West Bu nd Dream Center

Situated along an 800-meter stretch of the riverside, Gate M West Bund Dream Center is screening nearly 30 Chinese and international films, including La La Land .

It features two viewing areas: the Waterfront Theater and the Sunset Theater. As the sun sets and a gentle river breeze blows, viewers can watch films in a romantic riverside setting with distinctive Shanghai character.

When: Through July 20

Where: Waterfront Theater on the east side of Theater Plaza and Sunset Theater at the skate park, Gate M West Bund Dream Center ( GATE M西岸梦中心 ), Xuhui district

Admission: Free

Reservations: Waterfront Theater requires booking via the official WeChat mini program; no reservation is needed for Sunset Theater.

2 Gate M Nes t Park

Set amid expansive lawns near a children's water play area, the venue offers two open-air cinemas: Forest Cinema and Starlight Cinema. The lineup features heartwarming p ic ks such as Her Story and Coco , making it suitable for families and anyone looking for a cozy night out.

When: Through July 20

Where: Forest Cinema (Master Park lawn, 1F) and Starlight Cinema (sunken plaza, B1), Gate M Nest Park ( GATE M西岸凤巢 ), Xuhui district

Admission: Free, no reservation needed

3 Prisma

This newly opened mall in Pudong has been transformed into a movie-themed destination. Built around the Wonder Planet concept, it will screen films including Nobody an d Jurassic Park .

When: July 31 to Aug 9

Where: Prisma ( PRISMA新嘉中心 ), Pudong New Area

Admission: Free

4  Fortune Bund Happy Plaza

As part of the Shanghai Tonight campaign, the 2nd Fortune Bund Film Festival returns this summer. At Fortune Bund Happy Plaza, visitors can enjoy free outdoo r screenings of films, including The Lychee Road and A Little Red Flower .

When: Through July 19

Where: Fortune Bund Happy Plaza ( 滨江大道-富都滨江欢乐广场 ), Pudong New Area

Admission: Free

5  New Bund 31

The NB Movie open-air cinema returns to New Bund 31. The lineup features classic films, family-frie ndly animated films, and international films. After the screening, visitors can also explore the nearby performing arts center and surrou nding shopping area.

When: Through Oct 7

Where: The large lawn at New Bund 31 ( 前滩31 ), Pudong New Area

Admission: Free; reservations required via the official WeChat mini program

Tips

Screening times may change due to weather conditions. Check the organizers' latest announcements before heading out.

Bring a light jacket for cool evenings and mosquito repellent if necessary.

(Sources: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, venues mentioned above)

Source: Intl Services Shanghai