Free Movies Under the Palms at Brookfield Place, and Popcorn, Too!Courtesy of Brookfield Place

Four family-friendly films, two weekends, and a fun night out

At a Glance:

Free movie series at Brookfield Place over two spring weekends
Screenings inside the Winter Garden
Family-friendly lineup including Hook and Ratatouille
Free popcorn; additional snacks available
First-come, first-served—arrive early for a spot

Brookfield Place Free Movie Nights

If you’re looking for something fun to do with the kids outdoors that is free, Movies Under the Palms at Brookfield Place may be it. The series is back for two weekends in late April and early May, with a lineup of movies kids love and parents don’t really mind watching again.

The screenings take place inside the Winter Garden, the big glass atrium lined with palm trees along the Hudson. It’s bright, open, and so different enough from your usual movie night.

Friday shows start at 5 pm, good for older children, and Saturday screenings are at 1 pm, which is ideal for younger kids.

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Free Movies Under the Palms at Brookfield Place, and Popcorn, Too!Courtesy of Brookfield Place
Line-Up and Snacks

The lineup is well chosen. In the first weekend, Hook is a great nostalgic film. Ratatouille is a fan favorite for kids, and still enjoyable for adults. The second weekend leans into more familiar classics with Annie and The Wizard of Oz.

There is free popcorn, SmartSweets candy and other snacks for all, along with some light pre-show entertainment. Doors open an hour early, and you can use that time to get settled and grab what you need before the movie starts.

Know Before You Go

A couple of important things to know before you go: it’s first-come, first-served, and your whole group needs to go in together. Once it fills up, that’s it. The Saturday Ratatouille showing will probably be the busiest, so if that’s your pick, plan to be early. There’s no RSVP, which is great for flexibility, but not so much if you show up late and hope for the best.

Full Schedule

Friday, April 25 at 5 pm: Hook
Saturday, April 26 at 1 pm: Ratatouille
Friday, May 1 at 5 pm: Annie
Saturday, May 2 at 1 pm: The Wizard of Oz

This is a nice, simple spring outing: a good movie, a great setting, and snacks, to boot. Just show up a little early, and you’ll be all set.

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