There’s something special about watching a movie outdoors. Instead of sitting inside a traditional theatre, you can relax under the evening sky, enjoy a picnic and spend time with family or friends while a film plays on the big screen.
That’s what makes Perth Community Cinemas such an appealing entertainment option. These outdoor cinemas combine popular movies with a relaxed atmosphere and a strong community purpose.
Telethon Community Cinemas have become a familiar part of Perth’s warmer months, offering movie nights at several outdoor locations across the metropolitan area. Whether you’re planning a family evening, a casual date or a night out with friends, an outdoor cinema can make an ordinary movie screening feel like a complete evening event.
What Are Perth Community Cinemas?
Perth Community Cinemas are outdoor movie venues where people can watch films in open-air settings around Perth. They are closely associated with Telethon Community Cinemas, a community-focused organisation that combines entertainment with fundraising for children’s charities in Western Australia.
Rather than simply buying a cinema ticket and sitting in an indoor theatre, visitors can make an evening out of the experience. Depending on the venue, people can bring a picnic rug or chair, purchase food and drinks, and settle in before the movie begins.
The basic experience includes:
- Outdoor movie screenings
- Family-friendly entertainment
- Picnic and seating areas
- Food and refreshments
- A relaxed social atmosphere
- Support for children’s charities
This combination is one of the main reasons outdoor cinemas continue to attract families, couples and groups of friends.
Where Are Perth Community Cinemas Located?
Community Cinemas have operated at several locations throughout Perth. The main locations associated with recent seasons include Burswood, Bassendean, Murdoch and Joondalup.
| Location | Area | General Setting |
| Burswood | Burswood Parklands | Outdoor parkland |
| Bassendean | BIC Reserve | Community reserve |
| Murdoch | Murdoch University | University grounds |
| Joondalup | ECU Joondalup Pines | Outdoor pine setting |
Screening dates, films and venue arrangements can change from one season to another, so visitors should check the latest programme before making plans.
Burswood
Burswood provides an outdoor setting close to central Perth. Its parkland environment makes it suitable for people looking to combine a movie with a relaxed evening outdoors.
Bassendean
The Bassendean location gives people in the surrounding suburbs another option for enjoying an outdoor movie. Its reserve setting works particularly well for visitors who prefer a casual picnic-style cinema experience.
Murdoch
Murdoch University provides a southern Perth location for Community Cinemas. It can be a convenient choice for families, students and residents in nearby suburbs.
Joondalup
The Joondalup venue at ECU Joondalup Pines gives northern Perth residents access to outdoor movie entertainment without travelling into the city.
What Makes Outdoor Community Cinemas Different?
The biggest difference is the atmosphere.
A conventional cinema is designed primarily around the screen and the seats. Outdoor community cinemas create a more social experience. Visitors can arrive early, enjoy food, talk with friends and settle into an outdoor space before the movie begins.
The charitable purpose also makes the experience different.
Community Cinemas works with volunteers and supports children’s charities in Western Australia. This means visitors aren’t only paying for entertainment; their participation can also contribute to community fundraising.
For many people, that combination of entertainment and social impact makes the experience more meaningful.
What to Expect on a Movie Night
Your outdoor cinema experience will depend on the location and screening, but there are a few things you can generally expect.
1. Arrive Before the Film
Getting there early gives you enough time to find your preferred spot, organise your belongings and purchase food before the movie starts.
It can also be useful if you’re visiting with children, as you won’t need to rush once the screening begins.
2. Find Comfortable Seating
Outdoor cinemas allow visitors to enjoy the film from a more relaxed position than a traditional theatre.
Depending on the venue, you may be able to bring:
- A picnic rug
- A low outdoor chair
- A suitable folding chair
- Other permitted personal seating
Some venues may also provide bean bags for hire.
3. Enjoy Food and Drinks
Food is an important part of the outdoor cinema experience. Depending on the venue, visitors may be able to purchase snacks, meals and drinks on site.
If you’re planning to bring your own food, check the current venue rules first.
4. Watch the Movie Under the Sky
As daylight fades, the screen becomes the centre of attention. Watching a film outdoors creates a different atmosphere from an indoor cinema, particularly on a comfortable summer evening.
Food, Seating and What to Bring
A little preparation can make your movie night much more comfortable.
Useful Things to Bring
- Picnic rug or approved outdoor chair
- Light jacket or jumper
- Water
- Personal snacks if permitted
- Comfortable clothing
- Insect repellent if appropriate
- A small bag for personal items
It’s also worth checking the weather forecast before leaving. Even during warmer months, outdoor evenings can become surprisingly cool.
If you’re interested in movie-related entertainment beyond the cinema itself, you can also explore this article about Life of the Party for another film-focused read.
How to Choose the Right Location
The best Perth Community Cinemas location depends mainly on where you live and how far you’re willing to travel.
If You Live Near Central Perth
Burswood may be a convenient choice because of its location and outdoor parkland setting.
If You’re in Southern Perth
Murdoch can be a practical option for people living in the southern suburbs.
If You’re in Northern Perth
Joondalup is a convenient choice for residents around Perth’s northern metropolitan area.
If You’re Near the Eastern Suburbs
Bassendean provides another option for people living nearby.
Rather than travelling across Perth for a particular venue, consider choosing the location that offers the easiest journey. A shorter trip can make the entire evening more enjoyable.
Tips for Enjoying an Outdoor Cinema
Check the Weather
Weather is one of the most important considerations when attending an outdoor cinema. Check the forecast before leaving and review any venue-specific weather policies.
Dress Comfortably
Outdoor movies can last several hours, and temperatures may drop after sunset. Bringing a light jacket is a simple way to stay comfortable.
Arrive Early
Arriving early gives you more time to choose a good spot and enjoy the venue before the film starts.
Check the Film Rating
If you’re bringing children, always check the movie classification and suitability beforehand.
Plan Your Journey
Consider parking, public transport and walking distances before the event. Planning ahead can prevent unnecessary stress when you arrive.
Make It a Full Evening
Instead of treating the event as just a movie screening, consider making an evening of it. Bring friends or family, enjoy some food and take advantage of the outdoor setting.
The Community and Charitable Side
One of the most valuable aspects of Perth Community Cinemas is its charitable purpose.
The cinemas are supported by volunteers, helping create a community atmosphere at the venues. Funds raised through the organisation have supported children’s charities across Western Australia.
This gives the cinema experience an additional purpose. Visitors can enjoy a film while knowing that their participation contributes to fundraising efforts that benefit children and families.
The combination can be summed up simply:
Outdoor entertainment + community participation + charitable fundraising
That is what makes Community Cinemas different from an ordinary movie night.
Key Takeaways
- Perth Community Cinemas provide outdoor movie experiences across the Perth metropolitan area.
- Major locations include Burswood, Bassendean, Murdoch and Joondalup.
- Outdoor screenings offer a relaxed alternative to traditional cinemas.
- Visitors can often enjoy picnics, food and comfortable outdoor seating.
- Weather and venue arrangements can affect individual screenings.
- Arriving early can make the experience more enjoyable.
- Checking movie classifications is important when attending with children.
- Community Cinemas also has a strong charitable and volunteer-supported purpose.
FAQs About Perth Community Cinemas
1. What are Perth Community Cinemas?
Perth Community Cinemas are outdoor movie venues where visitors can watch films in open-air settings around Perth. They are associated with Telethon Community Cinemas and combine entertainment with community fundraising.
2. Where can I find Community Cinemas in Perth?
Major locations have included Burswood, Bassendean, Murdoch and Joondalup. Locations and schedules can change between seasons, so check the current programme before attending.
3. Can I bring my own chair?
Outdoor cinema venues generally allow suitable personal seating such as picnic rugs or approved chairs, although specific rules can vary. Always check the requirements for your chosen venue.
4. Are Perth Community Cinemas suitable for families?
Yes. Family movies are commonly included in outdoor cinema programmes. However, parents should check the classification and age suitability of each individual film.
5. What should I bring to an outdoor cinema?
A picnic rug or suitable chair, warm clothing, water and comfortable clothes are useful. You should also check the venue’s rules about outside food and drinks.
6. Is outdoor cinema affected by the weather?
Yes. Because screenings take place outdoors, weather conditions can affect the experience or occasionally the screening itself. Checking the forecast and venue updates before travelling is recommended.
7. Why are Community Cinemas important to Perth?
Community Cinemas provide entertainment while supporting children’s charities in Western Australia. The organisation also relies heavily on volunteers, giving the venues a strong community focus.
Conclusion
Perth Community Cinemas offer a simple but memorable way to enjoy movies differently. Instead of spending the evening inside a traditional theatre, visitors can relax outdoors, enjoy food, spend time with loved ones and watch a film under the night sky.
With locations across different parts of Perth, there are options for people living in the northern, southern, eastern and central areas. The charitable purpose behind the cinemas adds another reason to consider attending.
If you’re looking for a relaxed evening activity, check the current screening schedule, choose a convenient venue, prepare for the weather and arrive early. If you also enjoy discovering casual online entertainment and gaming options in your free time, you can explore Yandex Games for another form of entertainment
