There’s something magical about watching a movie outside on a warm summer evening, especially when the Indianapolis skyline is glowing in the background. This summer, White River State Park is bringing that magic to downtown Indy with Outdoor Movie Nights at Celebration Plaza, in partnership with Heartland Film.
From May through September, families can gather at White River State Park for a lineup of crowd-pleasing movies, snacks, fresh air, and a big-screen experience right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re planning a low-key family night, a downtown date night, or a fun outing with friends, this is one of those amazing summer events that’s easy, affordable, and very Indianapolis.
Outdoor Movies at White River State Park
Outdoor Movie Nights take place at Celebration Plaza inside White River State Park, located at 801 West Washington Street in Indianapolis. Gates open at 6:30 pm, and each movie begins at 7:30 pm.
Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets so everyone can get comfortable on the plaza. Snacks will be available for purchase, including soda, water, popcorn, and other treats. You may also bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages, which makes this an easy event for families with picky eaters, bedtime snackers, or kids who need their favorite treats close by.
Each movie night will also include a Heartland Film-curated short film before the feature presentation, adding something extra and unique to the evening.
You can buy tickets in advance.
2026 White River State Park Outdoor Movie Nights Schedule
Here’s the full Outdoor Movie Nights lineup at White River State Park:
May 21: The Incredibles
PG, 1 hour 55 minutes
Kick off the season with everyone’s favorite undercover superhero family. The Incredibles is funny, action-packed, and a great choice for families with kids who love adventure.
June 18: National Treasure
PG, 2 hours 11 minutes
A historian races to find the legendary Templar Treasure before a team of mercenaries. This one is perfect for families with older kids who love history, mystery, and a little treasure-hunting excitement.
July 16: Shrek
PG, 1 hour 29 minutes
A grumpy ogre, a talkative donkey, fairytale creatures, and a princess rescue mission make Shrek a summer movie night favorite. It’s silly, quotable, and fun for kids and adults.
August 20: Mamma Mia!
PG-13, 1 hour 48 minutes
Get ready for music, dancing, and ABBA songs stuck in your head for the rest of the week. Mamma Mia! is a fun pick for teens, parents, and anyone who loves a sing-along summer movie.
September 17: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
PG-13, 2 hours 33 minutes
End the outdoor movie season with Captain Jack Sparrow, sword fights, treasure, and pirate adventure. This longer movie is best for older kids, teens, and families who don’t mind a later evening.
Tickets and Family Passes for White River State Park Movie Nights
Tickets are affordable, which makes this a great option for a family night out downtown.
Single tickets are $5 per person. Families can also purchase a Family Pass for $20, which covers up to eight attendees. If you’re bringing the whole crew, the Family Pass is the way to go.
What to Bring to an Outdoor Movie Night
For the best experience, pack like you’re heading to a relaxed evening at the park. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, bug spray, and sunscreen. Even though the movie starts in the evening, you may still be sitting in the sun while you wait for the show to begin.
Kids may also like bringing a hoodie or a light blanket as the evening cools down. A few quiet activities, card games, or small toys can help keep younger children busy while you wait for the movie to start.
Information About Food, Snacks, and Dogs
Families are welcome to bring food and non-alcoholic drinks. This is always a win for parents because you can pack dinner, snacks, water bottles, and all the favorites your kids actually want.
Snacks will also be available for purchase during the event, including popcorn, soda, and water.
Dogs are welcome at Outdoor Movie Nights, but they must remain on a leash at all times. If your pup does well in crowds and around kids, this could be a fun downtown outing for the whole family.
Parking at White River State Park
Parking is available in the White River State Park underground parking garage, located in front of the Indiana State Museum. Parking validations will be provided for free parking in the underground garage while spaces last.
It’s important to note that free parking is not valid for the surface lot next to the Visitor Center, so be sure you’re heading to the underground garage if you plan to use the validation.
What Happens if It Rains?
In the event of inclement weather, movies will be moved to a rain date. Ticket holders will receive an email about weather-related changes, and updates will also be posted on the White River State Park website and social media.
The rain dates are:
May 28 for The Incredibles
June 25 for National Treasure
July 30 for Shrek
August 27 for Mamma Mia!
September 24 for Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
A Downtown Indy Summer Night for the Whole Family
Outdoor Movie Nights at White River State Park are one of those simple summer events that check all the boxes. They’re affordable, family-friendly, easy to plan, and set in one of the most beautiful spots in downtown Indianapolis.
Pack a blanket, grab your people, bring some snacks, and settle in for a movie night under the sky. With the Indy skyline as the backdrop and a lineup full of familiar favorites, this is a summer tradition families will want to add to the calendar.
