A free outdoor cinema in the heart of Lyon
Forget about air-conditioned multiplexes and reclining seats: this summer, the most beautiful ceiling in the world will be above your heads. Over at the Abbey of Ainay square, in the 2nd arrondissement of Lyon, the Cinéma sous les étoiles festival is back for its 24th edition, and it promises to be truly magical. During four evenings in July, nearly 800 spectators per screening will gather in front of the giant screen to enjoy free outdoor screenings in an incredibly friendly atmosphere.
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And the concept still works wonders: iconic films, makeshift deck chairs on the cobblestones of Lyon, and a weather we hope will be more Mediterranean than Breton, along with that rare feeling of sharing a suspended moment with hundreds of strangers. Yes, a bit like at the cinema… but with stars as a bonus.
Iconic films featuring Ghibli, Jim Carrey, and Palme d’Or
This year, the lineup clearly plays in the heavyweight category. The festival will showcase four must-see films from cinema history: The Truman Show, Captain Fantastic, Pom Poko from the Ghibli studios, and Parasite, a massive South Korean hit that won both the Palme d’Or and the Oscar for Best Picture. Let's just say the standard is far from your typical "Sunday movie."
Evening when you’re scrolling on your phone.
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Here, each screening is designed as a collective experience around big contemporary themes: consumer society, the relationship to freedom, family, capitalism, and our dependence on the market value of things. Yes, it may seem a bit…serious as it sounds, I promise there will also be raccoons that transform and Jim Carrey talking to hidden cameras. The films will be shown in their original version with subtitles, preceded by a short film whose programming will be revealed soon.
A Lyon festival powered by passionate volunteers
Behind this now cult event in Lyon is the association Quartier Libre, made up entirely of volunteers. Throughout the year, they work hard to offer a free, popular cultural event that is accessible to everyone. To accompany the screenings, a refreshment stand will be set up on-site to allow spectators to snack and toast between two iconic scenes. The festival also counts on the support of the Cinema and Miniature Museum, the Lumière cinemas, and the 3IS school.
In summary: four free evenings, some ch...Masterpieces of world cinema and an iconic spot in Lyon under a starry sky as the backdrop. Honestly, it's hard to find a better cultural plan for the summer in the capital of the Gauls.
Place d’Ainay - Lyon 2e
From July 15 to 18, 2026, starting at 8 PM (films begin at 10 PM)