Where to Watch Free Outdoor Movies In Northern VA

Local parks and plazas will light up the summer nights with blockbuster films such as "The Devil Wears Prada" and "Tangled."

Cinephiles, get ready to gather under the stars to watch all your fan favorites, including action flicks and animated pictures. Grab your picnic blanket and some popcorn for some budget-friendly bonding time at these free outdoor movies.

Movies in the Park at Mosaic District

Bring the fam (and your dog!) and plunk down on the turf under at the giant screen at Mosaic District’s Strawberry Park on Thursdays from June 18-Aug. 20, 7 p.m. Pick up something to eat from any of the many restaurants there and get lost in flicks such as The Parent Trap (June 18), Tangled (July 16) and GOAT (Aug. 16). 2910 District Ave., Fairfax

Cinema on the Plaza at GMU Arlington

Apropos of America’s 250th birthday celebrations, see National Treasure, in which a fortune hunter searches for a treasure hidden by the Founding Fathers. It’s on deck June 27, 8:30-10:45 p.m. Other flicks include Jurassic Park (the 1993 version) on July 25 and My Cousin Vinny in August (date TBD). Play digital bingo during the films to win prizes. 3401 Fairfax Drive, Arlington (Virginia Square)

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Wolf Trap Movies in Concert

These special shows aren’t free, but they’re worth noting for their cool factor. The National Symphony Orchestra provides a live soundtrack to feature films Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (July 9, 8 p.m.), The Little Mermaid (July 11, 7:30 p.m.), Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Aug. 27, 8 p.m.), and Hook (Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m.). Check the website for ticket prices. Filene Center, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna

The Pike Movie Night

The Columbia Pike Partnership will host movie nights on July 11, 18 and 25 and Aug. 1, 8:30 p.m. The lineup includes The Devil Wears Prada and I Know What You Did Last Summer. Check the website for locations and each night’s featured movie. Arlington Mill Community Center, 909 S. Dinwiddie St., Arlington, and Penrose Square, 2501 9th Road, S., Arlington

Sunset Cinema in The Little City

The 23rd annual series returns to Cherry Hill Park on select Fridays each month from August through October. Screenings start at dusk, usually between 6:45-7:45 p.m. This year’s featured films are still being nailed down, so watch the website for details. 312 Park Ave., Falls Church

Cinema Del Ray

On the third Saturday of the month, now through Oct. 17, catch a family-friendly film outdoors at the Mount Vernon Rec Center. Entry is free and snacks are available for purchase. The next movie night is June 20. Movies start at dusk. Check the Facebook page for movie listings. 2017 Belle View Blvd., Alexandria

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Regal’s Summer Movie Express

It’s neither totally free nor outside, but in the event of a rainy day, Regal’s Summer Movie Express is a budget-friendly option. See matinee films for just $1 per ticket through Aug. 13 at 11 a.m. Mondays-Thursdays. Shows include King Fu Panda 4, David, K-Pop Demon Hunters and Dog Man. Regal Ballston Quarter, 671 N. Glebe Road, Arlington

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