5 Must-Watch Movies at The Galileo Open Air Cinema this Summer

The Galileo Open Air Cinema’s 10th season is already in full swing. If you’re yet to book your tickets to catch a screening at Cape Town’s most beloved outdoor cinema, then fear not, there is still loads of movie magic to be enjoyed this summer. With over 100 movie screenings set in some of the most picturesque and exclusive locations across Cape Town and the Cape Winelands, there’s bound to be something that catches your eye. Not sure what to watch? Check out our picks for 5 of the must-watch movies at The Galileo Open Air Cinema this summer.
What to expect this summer at The Galileo
Season 10 will run until 24 April 2022, showcasing a series of blockbuster hits, from family favourites to heart-warming romcoms, upbeat comedies, adored musicals and more. Experience the new Royale cinema picnic option, an exclusive screening available at alternating venues, Radisson Blu Waterfront and Beau Constantia Wine Estate on the first Wednesday of each month. These intimate screenings will add a touch of ‘sophistication’ to your week.
Thursdays and Sundays are reserved for the much-loved, magnificent Kirstenbosch Gardens, The Galileo picnic venue loved by all. Fridays offer outdoor movie fans the chance to explore the city a little more, with rotating city venue favourites like Battery Park V&A Waterfront, Central Park in Century City and Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville.
Saturdays are for wine farms and this season, The Galileo will be hosted at a selection of carefully curated, prestigious estates across Somerset-West, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. See the movie schedule for more info and combine your Saturday plans with a favourite flick and a new farm to tick off the list!
Here are our picks for the must-see movies at The Galileo this summer:
Four Christmases: Thursday 23 December 2021
Picnic: Kirstenbosch Gardens, Newlands. Book here.
Get into the spirit of Christmas with this festive comedy that is sure to delight! Starring Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon, this side-splitting comedic romp is the best way to kick off your festive season celebrations.
Lovers Brad (Vince Vaughn) and Kate (Reese Witherspoon) plan to go on a vacation to Fiji to spend the holidays in peace. However, when their vacation plan is foiled, they are forced to visit all four of their divorced parents for Christmas.
Dirty Dancing: Friday 7 January 2022
Picnic: Meerendal Wine Estate, Durbanville. Book here.
The perfect Friday night date night movie, Dirty Dancing is fun and romantic. Plus, with a winelands setting at Meerndal it doesn’t get any better!
While holidaying with her parents at a placid resort, Frances (Jennifer Grey) is smitten with the resort’s rebellious dance instructor, Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze). Her father opposes their relationship, which creates a rift between him and her.
About Time: Saturday 5 February 2022
Picnic: Nederburg Wine Farm, Paarl. Book here.
A real tear-jerker, this classic love story is a must-watch for sure. If you’re looking for a special film to enjoy with your girlfriends for a girl’s night out with snacks and wine, then this is for you. It would also make for the ideal date movie with a special someone. The setting of Nederburg wine farm in Paarl will indeed bring a special touch to this already wonderful story.
Like all the men in his family, Tim Lake (Domhnall Gleeson) possesses the power to travel in time. With the advice of his father, he uses his special ability to pursue his romantic interest, Mary (Rachel McAdams).
Notting Hill: Monday 14 February 2022 (Valentine’s Day Special Screening)
Picnic: Nooitgedacht Estate, Stellenbosch. Book here.
Join The Galileo for a special Valentine’s Day screening of romantic comedy Notting Hill. There will plenty of love in the air for this special screening event, so grab a special someone or your ‘galentines’ and make your way to Stellenbosch for a chance to be shot by Cupid’s arrow.
This beloved film tells the story of the unlikely romance between London bookshop owner, William Thacker (Hugh Grant) and famous Hollywood actress, Anna Scott (Julia Roberts) who happens to walk into his shop.
Peter Rabbit 2: Sunday 17 April (Special Easter Screening)
Picnic: Meerendal Wine Estate, Durbanville. Book here.
This special Easter screening of Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway is a must-book for the whole family. There will be plenty of Easter fun to be had and the Galileo crew always delivers in making the special screenings a fun and festive event you won’t soon forget.
Thomas and Bea are now married and living with Peter and his rabbit family. Bored of life in the garden, Peter goes to the big city, where he meets shady characters and ends up creating chaos for the whole family. The film stars voice actors Rose Byrne, Domhnall Gleeson, and David Oyelowo.
The low-down on The Galileo
The Galileo summer picnic series offers the perfect setting for a memorable evening with friends, a romantic date night, a fun birthday bash, team ‘end-of-year ‘party, as well as the ideal quality-time family outing. With strict Covid19 measures in place to ensure peace of mind, guests can return to The Galileo with confidence and enjoy a safe, unforgettable time with their loved ones.
Doors open at 6PM on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays and 5PM on Saturdays. The movie begins as soon as the sun sets. Arrive early, find your spot on the lawn and enjoy pre-movie al fresco dining while supporting local with various artisanal food offerings from the on-site vendors. More than just a movie experience, The Galileo Picnic offers an opportunity to soak up the balmy summer atmosphere with vibey music, beautiful views and more!
Ticket prices: (per person)
Standard: R109 (entry only).
Warm: R117 (plus blanket).
Comfy: R125 (plus backrest).
Warm & comfy: R130 (plus blanket and backrest).
VIP: R195 (Reserved premium seating, blanket, backrest, including drink, popcorn and chocolate).
The Galileo Open Air Cinema’s summer movie schedule is now available. Visit their website to book your seat under the stars.