In the heart of Lyon, a free outdoor cinema
Forget air-conditioned multiplexes and reclining seats: this summer, the most beautiful ceiling in the world will be above your heads. From the summer of the Abbey square in Ainay, in the 2nd arrondissement of Lyon, the Cinema under the Stars festival is back for its 24th edition promising a truly magical experience. During four July evenings, nearly 800 spectators per session will gather in front of the giant screen to enjoy free outdoor screenings in a super friendly atmosphere.
And the concept still works great: cult films, improvised deck chairs on Lyon’s pavements, a setting that feels more Mediterranean than Breton, and the rare sensation of sharing a suspended moment with hundreds of strangers. Yes, a bit like at the cinema, but with the stars as a bonus.
Legendary films between Ghibli, Jim Carrey, and Palme d’Or
This year, the program features heavyweight films. The festival will offer four essential films of cinema: “The Truman Show,” “Captain Fantastic,” “Pom Poko” from Ghibli Studios, and “Parasite,” a South Korean masterpiece awarded the Palme d’Or and the Oscar for Best Picture. This is far from the typical Sunday night movie you watch while scrolling on your phone.
Here, each screening is designed as a collective experience around contemporary themes: consumer society, freedom, family, capitalism, and our dependence on the market value of things. The films will be shown in their original versions with subtitles and will be accompanied by a short film, the program of which will be revealed soon.
A Lyon festival led by passionate volunteers
Behind this iconic event in Lyon is the association “Quartier Libre,” made up entirely of volunteers. All year round, they work to offer a free, popular, and accessible cultural event for all. To accompany the screenings, a bar will be set up on site for spectators to snack and toast between iconic scenes. The festival also receives support from the Cinema and Miniature Museum, Lumière cinemas, and the 3IS school.
In summary: four free evenings, masterpieces of world cinema, and an emblematic square in Lyon under a starry sky as the backdrop. Truly, it’s hard to find a better cultural plan for the summer in the capital of Gaul.
Place: Ainay Square – Lyon 2nd Dates: July 15-18, 2026 from 8 pm (films start at 10 pm)
