A Summer of Nostalgia and New Releases at Moonlight Cinema Melbourne
Melbourne’s most cherished open‑air cinema is about to hit a milestone. Moonlight Cinema Melbourne is celebrating its 30th anniversary, and organisers are pulling out all the stops. This season runs from 3 December 2025 to 5 April 2026, giving locals and visitors ample opportunity to sprawl out on the Royal Botanic Gardens’ lawns and soak up a film under the night sky. Tickets are already available, and anticipation is building for a summer of cinema unlike any before.
To mark the occasion, the team behind Moonlight has handed over part of the programming to its audience. A special “People’s Program” invites moviegoers to vote online for the classic flicks they most want to see return. The winning titles will pepper the January to March schedule as a thank‑you to the millions of Australians who have made Moonlight a staple of their summers over the last three decades. As John Boero, General Manager of Entertainment Operations at EVT, puts it: “For three decades, Moonlight Cinema has been a quintessential summer ritual for millions of Australians.” By letting fans shape the line‑up, the 30th birthday season honours that ritual while promising a fresh sense of ownership.
The line‑up itself is an enticing mix of nostalgia and novelty. Early December will brim with yuletide cheer as the screen lights up with Christmas classics such as Elf, Love Actually, Home Alone, The Holiday, The Polar Express and a certain green grump in How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Once the festive glow fades, Moonlight shifts into blockbuster mode. Anticipated titles like Wicked: For Good, Eternity and Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere will get the outdoor treatment, alongside animated crowd‑pleasers Zootopia 2 and Moana 2. Whether you crave comfort viewing or the latest release, there’s a screening with your name on it.
Of course, the magic of Moonlight extends beyond the movies. Each venue transforms into a mini festival, complete with on‑site kitchens, a fully licensed bar and interactive pop‑ups. The lawns are dotted with bean‑bag seating, and even canine companions are welcome — you can hire a dog‑sized bean bag and pick up special treats for your furry friend. Those seeking a little extra indulgence can opt for Singapore Airlines Gold Grass, which grants express entry, prime viewing positions and waiter‑service food and drinks. Ice‑cream lovers should consider the Connoisseur Lounge, which includes a gourmet scoop and a reserved bean bed. These touches elevate a simple movie night into an event worth dressing up for.
Planning ahead is essential for maximum comfort. Guests who don’t hire seats are welcome to pack picnic rugs or camping chairs, and bringing along a hamper of food and drinks (alcohol included) is positively encouraged. Insect spray and layers of clothing will fend off mozzies and after‑dark chills, while blankets come in handy for the later sessions. If you’d rather travel light, Moonlight’s vendors sell a variety of snacks and beverages to tide you over. With the season stretching from early summer through mid‑autumn, you’ll have plenty of chances to refine your perfect outdoor cinema setup.
While Moonlight Cinema tours several Australian cities, the Melbourne edition holds a special place in many hearts. Watching films framed by the Royal Botanic Gardens’ towering trees and glimpses of the city skyline creates a sense of wonder that no indoor multiplex can match. Whether you’re reliving treasured favourites, discovering new gems or simply enjoying a balmy evening with friends, Moonlight Cinema Melbourne promises to be the must‑see experience of summer 2025–26.
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Event Details
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Event Details
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Season dates – 3rd December 2025 to 5 April 2026
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Location – Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Central Lawn, Melbourne
Movie Line‑up
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- Holiday favourites: Elf; Love Actually; Home Alone; The Holiday; The Polar Express; How the Grinch Stole Christmas
- New releases: Wicked: For Good; Eternity; Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere
- Family friendly: Zootopia 2; Moana 2