Cinema a la Fresca Palma: Open-Air Movies at Parc de la Mar
Cinema a la Fresca: Palma’s Summer Movie Tradition
Each summer, as dusk falls over Parc de la Mar, Palma transforms into one of Europe’s most scenic outdoor cinemas. The Cinema a la Fresca series has become a local tradition — free, open-air film nights held beneath the illuminated towers of Palma Cathedral (La Seu).
Families, friends, and film lovers gather by the lake with blankets and picnic baskets, enjoying international and Spanish films projected on a giant screen with the sea breeze drifting in.
🎬 What is Cinema a la Fresca?
Cinema a la Fresca (literally “Cinema in the Fresh Air”) is an annual open-air film festival organized by the Ajuntament de Palma (City Council). It runs through July and August, screening classics, blockbusters, and local films in both original and dubbed versions.
- Location: Parc de la Mar, beneath the Cathedral
- When: Evenings (usually Fridays and Saturdays)
- Admission: Free
- Audience: Locals, families, and visitors of all ages
📅 Cinema a la Fresca 2025 Highlights (updated for 2026 schedule soon)
| Date | Film | Language | Time |
| 12 July | “Oppenheimer” | Original version with Spanish subtitles | 22:00 |
| 19 July | “Alcarràs” | Catalan | 22:00 |
| 26 July | “La La Land” | English with Spanish subtitles | 22:00 |
| 2 August | “Barbie” | Spanish dubbed | 22:00 |
| 9 August | “Minions: The Rise of Gru” | Spanish | 22:00 |
| 16 August | “Everything Everywhere All At Once” | English with subtitles | 22:00 |
🗓️ The 2026 programme will be confirmed by Ajuntament de Palma in early summer — check their event calendar closer to the season.
🌅 The Experience
- Arrive early: Locals start gathering from 21:00 to find good spots near the lake.
- Bring a blanket or beach chair: The screenings are outdoors on open ground.
- Snacks welcome: Many bring picnic baskets, while nearby kiosks sell drinks and popcorn.
- Family-friendly: Most films are PG-rated, though the schedule includes some arthouse selections for adults.
- Unforgettable backdrop: Watching a film with the Cathedral glowing above the screen is pure Palma magic.
🍴 What’s Nearby
| Place | What to Expect | Best For |
| Café Parc de la Mar | Terrace café with Cathedral views | Quick bites before the film |
| Mar de Nudos (Moll Vell) | Fine dining, 5-minute walk away | Dinner with marina atmosphere |
| Restaurant Pesquero (RCNP area) | Tapas and seafood by the harbour | Post-cinema drinks by the water |
More options: Explore La Lonja for tapas or Santa Catalina for late-night dining.
🏨 Where to Stay Nearby
| Hotel | What to Expect | Best For |
| Es Príncep Hotel (5★) | Overlooks Parc de la Mar with rooftop bar | Luxury stays steps from the event |
| Hotel Cappuccino (5★) | Old Town boutique hotel with private cinema-style charm | Design lovers |
| Meliá Palma Marina (4★) | On the promenade near RCNP | Easy waterfront access |
🚶 Getting There
- On foot: Located directly below Palma Cathedral, a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.
- By bike/scooter: Easy access via the Paseo Marítimo cycle path.
- By car: Underground parking available beneath Parc de la Mar.
- By bus: Lines 25, 35, and 102 stop at “Catedral.”
💡 Local Tips
- Bring a light jacket — sea breezes can get cool after 23:00.
- Dogs are not allowed during film nights.
- Films start around 22:00 in July and slightly earlier in late August.
- Most screenings include Spanish subtitles, even for English films.
📸 Cinema a la Fresca vs. Other Palma Summer Events
| Category | Nit de l’Art Palma | Sant Sebastià Concerts | Cinema a la Fresca |
| Season | September | January | July–August |
| Theme | Art exhibitions & galleries | Live music & fire parades | Outdoor cinema under the stars |
| Atmosphere | Cultural & creative | Festive & lively | Relaxed & family-friendly |
| Location | Palma Old Town | City squares | Parc de la Mar |
🔗 Official Information
For the latest programme and announcements, visit the Ajuntament de Palma’s official events page.
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