Summertime Magic: the sun dips behind the mountains, a warm breeze swirls through the air, and families gather on picnic blankets while the opening credits roll on a giant outdoor screen. That’s summer in Ventura County. Whether you’re catching a classic in the park or enjoying budget-friendly blockbusters in air-conditioned theaters, this summer is bursting with cinematic adventures for kids and adults alike.
In this guide, we’re spotlighting the best summer movies happening throughout Ventura County—think free flicks in the park, discounted theater deals, and family-friendly screenings that’ll keep everyone entertained from May through September. Let’s roll!
Table of Contents
Movies at the Park – Conejo Recreation and Park District, Thousand Oaks
There’s just something nostalgic about catching a movie under the stars, and the Conejo Recreation and Park District knows how to do it right. Located in Thousand Oaks, this community event brings together neighbors, friends, and families for a movie night that feels straight out of a storybook.
Details:
•Admission: Free, Movies start at sun down.
•Location: Thousand Oaks Community Park. 2525 Moorpark Rd. Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
•What to Bring: Lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic (yes, homemade popcorn encouraged!)
2025 Movie Schedule:
•May 2 (Friday): E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial
•August 8 (Friday): The Lion King
•September 12 (Friday): The Incredibles
This is a cozy way to spend your evening, especially if you’re new to the area and looking to meet other local families.
Disclaimer: Please visit the Conejo Recreation and Park District website for any schedule changes or weather updates.
Movies in the Park – Arroyo Vista Community Park, Moorpark
Just a short drive away in Moorpark, the Arroyo Vista Community Park hosts its own series of summer movies on Saturday nights. Tucked behind the recreation center, the big screen lights up as soon as the sky dims.
Details:
•Admission: Free, Movie starts at dusk
•Location: 4550 Tierra Rejada Road, Behind the Arroyo Vista Rec Center
•What to Bring: Lawn chairs or blankets, and an appetite—there’s a snack shack on site! Outside food and drinks are welcome too.
2025 Movie Schedule:
•June 14 (Saturday): The Wizard of Oz
•July 12 (Saturday): Surf’s Up
•August 9 (Saturday): Ant-Man
•September 13 (Saturday): Sonic 3
It’s a local favorite event where summer feels simple again.
Disclaimer: Please check the City of Moorpark’s parks and recreation website for updated event info.
AMC Theatres – Summer Movie Deals
Need a break from the sun? Participating AMC Theatres are offering summer movies that won’t break the bank. With air conditioning and comfy seats, this is a perfect weekday escape for kids and parents alike.
Budget Movie Dates & Titles:
•June 23 & 25: The Bad Guys
•June 30 & July 2: Minions: The Rise of Gru
•July 7 & 9: Despicable Me 4
•July 14 & 16: Kung Fu Panda 4
•July 21 & 23: The Wild Robot
•July 28 & 30: Shrek
•August 4 & 6: Migration
•August 11 & 13: The Secret Life of Pets
These showings usually happen earlier in the day, making them ideal for young audiences or a mid-morning treat.
Disclaimer: Movie times may vary by location. Be sure to check your local AMC listings for updated schedules.
Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse – Budget-Friendly at $1.75
For just $1.75 a ticket, Cinemark is serving up a hit list of fan-favorite summer movies perfect for all ages. Whether your kid is a budding superhero or a cartoon connoisseur, they’re in for a treat.
Summer Lineup:
•June 2–5: The Bad Guys
•June 9–12: The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water
•June 16–19: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
•June 23–26: Shrek 2
•June 30–July 3: Despicable Me 4
•July 7–10: Kung Fu Panda 4
•July 14–17: The Wild Robot
•July 21–24: Sonic the Hedgehog 3
•July 28–31: The Garfield Movie
•August 4–7: The Lego Batman Movie
It’s the ultimate weekday entertainment plan without hurting your wallet.
Disclaimer: Participating locations only. Visit Cinemark.com for full details and participating theaters.
Studio Movie Grill – Children’s Summer Series
If your crew loves a movie with snacks included, the Studio Movie Grill is offering a steal. Their children’s summer series runs Monday through Thursday mornings at 10 AM and includes a ticket, popcorn, and a small drink—all for $6!
Movie Schedule:
•June 23–26: Shrek
•June 30–July 3: The Bad Guys
•July 7–10: Kung Fu Panda 4
•July 14–17: The Wild Robot
•July 21–24: Sing 2
•July 28–31: Despicable Me 4
•August 4–7: Shrek 2
•August 11–14: Curious George
This is an especially great option for parents looking for structured summer activities in a safe, fun environment.
Disclaimer: Showtimes and availability may vary. Please confirm with your local Studio Movie Grill location.
Regal Theatres – $1 Movies & $5 Snack Packs
Regal Theatres are leaning into summer fun with a curated list of kid-favorite films and a sweet snack pack deal. For just $1 per ticket and $5 for a drink-popcorn-fruit combo, your family can enjoy big-screen favorites at a low cost.
Featured Films Include:
•Sing 2
•Puss in Boots
•Trolls Band Together
•IF
•Sonic the Hedgehog 2 & 3
•The Bad Guys
•The Wild Robot
•Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
•Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
•Leo
•PAW Patrol: The Movie
•PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie
•Kung Fu Panda 4
•Despicable Me 4
•Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
•The Garfield Movie
•Minions: The Rise of Gru
•Paddington in Peru
With showings happening throughout the week, it’s the perfect “lazy day” solution that keeps everyone happy.
Disclaimer: Please verify movie dates and times at your local Regal theater before attending.
Summer Movie Nights – Church of the Nazarene, Camarillo
Camarillo locals are in for a heartwarming treat this summer thanks to the Church of the Nazarene’s free summer movie nights. Held right on the church lawn, this welcoming community event brings together families and friends for classic flicks under the stars.
Details:
•Admission: Free
•Start Time: Slightly after 8:00 PM (just as the sun goes down)
•Location: Church of the Nazarene, Camarillo
•What to Bring: Lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and your favorite snacks
2025 Movie Schedule:
•June 27 (Friday): Lilo & Stitch
•July 18 (Friday): Tarzan
•August 8 (Friday): King of Kings
This is more than just a movie night—it’s a chance to connect with neighbors and create lasting summer memories. All are welcome, and there’s a true small-town charm to these gatherings.
Disclaimer: Movie nights may be subject to change. Please visit the Church of the Nazarene Camarillo’s official page or social media for the most current schedule and updates.
Ojai Library Summer Movie Series
For a cool, quiet, and relaxing movie experience, head to Showtime at the Library hosted by the Ojai Library. This free indoor movie series is perfect for those warmer summer days when you’re looking to escape the heat but still enjoy something fun and engaging with the family—or even solo.
Details:
•Admission: Free
•Registration: Not required
•Location: Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023
•When: Select afternoons at 12 PM and evenings at 5 PM
2025 Movie Schedule:
•June 23 at 12 PM & June 26 at 5 PM: One of Them Days
•June 30 at 12 PM & July 3 at 5 PM: Sonic 3
•July 21 at 12 PM & July 24 at 5 PM: Last Breath
•July 28 at 12 PM & July 31 at 5 PM: Blade Runner
It’s a unique addition to the summer lineup, offering a variety of films in a cozy, air-conditioned setting. Whether you’re looking for thoughtful storytelling or action-packed adventures, this series brings cinema straight to the heart of Ojai.
Disclaimer: For the most current movie titles and times, please check the Ojai Library’s website or call ahead.
FAQs About Summer Movies in Ventura County
Q: Are all the outdoor movies free?
Yes! Both the Thousand Oaks and Moorpark events are completely free to attend.
Q: Can I bring my own food to park movie nights?
Absolutely. Feel free to pack a picnic, though some locations also offer snack shacks or food vendors.
Q: Do the theaters sell out for budget movie days?
They can fill up quickly, especially on rainy days or when schools are out. Try to arrive early or reserve tickets in advance when possible.
Q: What should I bring for outdoor screenings?
Lawn chairs, blankets, bug spray, and cozy layers—nights can get chilly once the sun sets!
Final Reel: Make This Summer a Blockbuster
From the charm of watching movies beneath the stars to scoring a $1 ticket for your kid’s favorite animated adventure, Ventura County has transformed summer movies into unforgettable community experiences. Whether you’re a parent planning a fun outing, a babysitter needing a daytime activity, or just a movie buff looking for something different—there’s something for everyone on this list.
Bookmark this guide, share it with your friends, and don’t forget to pack the snacks. Summer movie magic is rolling now.
If summer movies are your family’s favorite way to unwind, just wait until you see what’s happening on local stages. Ventura County is also packed with free and family-friendly summer concerts that bring music, food, and fun to parks and plazas all season long.
Be sure to check out our summer concert guides, because nothing pairs better with a great movie night than a weekend full of live music under the stars.
Free Summer Concert Series By The Sea 2025
