Let’s face it: heading to the cinema ain’t cheap these days – add a choc top into the mix and yeesh, you may as well take out a second mortgage. Luckily, Parramatta has the answer once again for families keen to get out and about without blowing the budget. The city’s much-loved Family Movie Nights are returning in April 2026, bringing a series of free outdoor cinema events to parks across the area.
Five local parks and reserves will transform into open-air movie theatres across two weekends during the school holidays, inviting families to roll out the picnic blankets and settle in for a night under the stars. Expect a line-up of recent blockbuster flicks – including A Minecraft Movie and Wicked: For Good – projected onto the big screen.
But it’s not just about the movies. Each event kicks off with a festival-style atmosphere before sundown, featuring themed activities, roving performers, food trucks and plenty of inflatable fun (think a giant slide, fun house and even a soccer dart board). There’ll also be hands-on activities inspired by the films, like Minecraft LEGO building, potion and wand making, reptile displays and karate headband decorating.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the annual event continues to bring communities together for a free night out.
“This is about getting our communities together for a free, fun night out with a movie, good food and fun activities,” Cr Zaiter said.
“Over the past 10 years, thousands of people have packed a picnic blanket, some popcorn and snacks and enjoyed a film in our parks. Nearly 5,000 people gathered for last year’s Family Movie Nights so we’re expecting even bigger crowds this year.”
Each year, the event rotates through different neighbourhood parks so communities across Parramatta get their turn to host. In 2026, the recently opened Sue Savage Reserve in Toongabbie joins the roster alongside four other local green spaces.
“Council’s Family Movie Nights also give our communities the chance to enjoy the best green spaces in Sydney,” Cr Zaiter said. “Global cities value their parks and reserves, and this event helps locals explore these open, green spaces and experience the benefits of Council’s investment into these important social spaces.”
So pack up the picnic rug (BYO choc tops strongly encouraged), gather the crew and enjoy a free night of alfresco cinema.
Check out the 2026 Family Movie Nights line-up below:
Friday, April 10 – A Minecraft Movie, Sue Savage Reserve, Toongabbie
Saturday, April 11 – Wicked: For Good, Northmead Reserve, Northmead
Sunday, April 12 – Bad Guys 2, Upjohn Park, Rydalmere
Friday, April 17 – How to Train Your Dragon, F.S. Garside Park, Granville
Saturday, April 18 – Karate Kid: Legends, West Epping Park, Epping
All films are rated PG. For more information, visit the AtParramatta website.
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