20 Free to See Film and Theater Events in the U.S.

Free theater and film screenings are a tradition in many cities across the U.S. Here are 10 free movie nights and 10 free theater events that you’re sure to enjoy. Get a sneak peek at the lists below, then find the entire lineup online (here and here.) Plus, we want to hear from you. Tell us about a free film or theater event in your neighborhood.

Film

Movies in the Park Portland, Oregon

Parks around Portland will be hosting a July-September free movie series sponsored by the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation. Screenings are paired with other fun activities, from climbing walls to cookie tastings.

Wonderland of the Americas San Antonio, Texas

Thursday night is free movie night in San Antonio—for the first 200 guests anyway—at Wonderland of the America’s Santikos Bijou. Each month’s lineup is set by a theme; past favorites have included Romance and Elizabeth Taylor. Check in each month for coming attractions.

Theater

Radical Hospitality Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Mixed Blood Theatre on the West Bank of the University of Minnesota campus calls it Radical Hospitality. You’ll call it a sweet deal. Mixed Blood Theatre offers free tickets for everyone for every main-stage production of the season in order to make Minneapolis theater accessible to all.

The Muny St. Louis, Missouri

The Municipal Theatre in St. Louis’s Forest Park is an outdoor gem that was constructed and opened during World War I. Back then some of the seats were set aside as freebies—and they still are today. The last nine rows, about 1,500 seats, are free on a first-come, first-served basis for every Muny performance.

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Help us build our list! Tell us about your favorite (and free!) film and theater events in the U.S. or the world. Leave the details in the comments section below.

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