Summer nights in DC can’t be beat; it may be humid during the day, but evenings are perfect for being out on the town. Washington DC may be known for politics, but it’s a little known secret that DC is full of moviegoers and film lovers, and we’re about to let that cat out of the bag! As it turns out, there will be many opportunities to enjoy the weather this summer and enjoy classic films as well as summer blockbusters. Spend your days with cinephiles at the DC Shorts Film Festival or with your family at the Capitol Riverfront Summer Outdoor Movies festival. Whether you’re planning a memorable first date or an activity with friends, GalTime has all the dish on the film scene that you need to fill this summer with unique activities.
Screen on the Green
Above all, don’t miss out on the most exciting of DC traditions: Screen on the Green. One of the most popular events, SOTG shows films every Monday night, starting at 9PM on the National Mall. Bring friends, snacks, and a blanket (avoid lawn chairs!), and don’t worry about the cost, as it’s free! A great way to take advantage of the weather and DC’s historical landmarks, this is an experience you won’t get anywhere else. Running from July through August, follow @SOTGinDC on Twitter to get the full schedule and updates on which movies are screening each week! One tip: avoid driving, and take the metro to Archives/Navy Memorial, Smithsonian, or L'Enfant Plaza stations.
Capitol Riverfront Summer Outdoor Movies 2012
The Capitol Riverfront will screen free weekly family friendly films near the Washington Navy Yard and Nationals Park. True to its name, the screen sits right on the Potomac and arriving early means the opportunity for family and friends to partake in activities like Wii on the big screen and trivia! Rain or shine, show up on Thursdays for 8:45 screenings. This summer’s schedule, running from May 24 to July 26, includes Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl and National Treasure.
NoMa Summer Screen
The NoMa Summer Screen will be geared more towards friends and young adults; the free summer-long fest features films with an “End of the World” motif, with selections like The Day After Tomorrow and Independence Day. From 7:00-11:00 every Wednesday, the free event will include live DJs, barbeque and music sets: the perfect after work or post-internship activity! Located in Northeast DC on L street and 3rd, take the Metro to New York Avenue. Check out NoMa for the full schedule!
DC Shorts Film Festival 2012
And don’t miss out on the summer’s final festival, the DC Shorts Film Festival, from September 6-16. Focusing on independent films, particularly those made by DC-based writers and directors, screenings will be held at Landmark’s E Street Cinema, Atlas Performing Arts Center, US Navy Memorial’s Burke Theater, and the Artisphere. Where else can you catch free family movie screenings and free lunchtime movie screenings?!
