Ditch the living room for lawn chairs, popcorn and big-screen fun under the stars.

Story by Alea Wilkins

Behold the silver screen beneath the open sky this summer at the Lowcountry’s outdoor movie showings. From Hilton Head Island’s family friendly festivities to Beaufort County’s only drive-in, there’s an open-air arena to entertain all audiences. Pack a picnic for dinner and a show, or satisfy the movie munchies with treats from favorite local spots. Plus, find bounce houses, playgrounds and plenty of open space to kick back with friends and family for the ultimate watch party. Make movie nights more memorable this summer with screenings as cinematic as a feature film.

Tin & Tallow

2 Spanish Wells Road, Hilton Head Island

Parents, this one’s for you. While the selected showings are appropriate for young audiences, they tap into a slightly more mature crowd’s memories. At Tin & Tallow’s storefront off of Spanish Wells Road, the outdoor dining area includes a screen projecting golf or local broadcasts by day, but every Tuesday night a nostalgic flick takes over. Escape to yesteryear with a re-watch of classics like “Mrs. Doubtfire” or “The Goonies,” and introduce the kids to some oldies but goodies. Complete the viewing with Tin & Tallow’s gourmet selection of smash burgers, handhelds and brews, including crowd-pleaser chicken sandwiches and limited-time offerings. Movie showings begin at 6 p.m., and the kitchen closes at 8 p.m., so grab your snacks early. Visit Tin & Tallow’s store to see the monthly entertainment schedule, or check its Instagram for weekly event updates. 

Hwy 21 Drive-In

55 Parker Drive, Beaufort

Catch a flick the old-fashioned way at the Hwy 21 Drive-In, the Lowcountry’s only drive-in theater. Every Thursday through Sunday, three screens feature the newest blockbusters beginning at 8:30 p.m. Plus, on Fridays and Saturdays, they host double-features to keep the movie magic rolling into the night. With renovated sound and lighting systems, the drive-in boasts old-timey charm with modern improvements, and its entire grounds are outfitted to make every viewing a unique experience. Before the movie begins, toss a frisbee on the spacious lawn, take kids to the playground or enjoy a meal as the sun sets. Visitors rave about all the goodies at the concession stand, but the fresh funnel cake is the real showstopper. Since the drive-in is in a wooded area, it’s also a good idea to bring bug spray. Arrive early to secure a prime spot. 

Plant Riverside District

400 W. River St., Savannah

For the finale to a Savannah day trip, stick around for a movie on the riverfront. At the Plant Riverside District’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, free film screenings are scheduled to wrap up the festivities on the Fourth of July and Labor Day. Following Memorial Day’s screening of “Toy Story,” the later dates will show the sequels “Toy Story 2” and “Toy Story 3.” Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, but guests are encouraged to bring their own blankets and chairs to the lawn. Arrive early and pick up a movie snack from the district’s seafood or smokehouse joints, or indulge with a to-go cocktail from nearby bars. With films on-screen and the picturesque view of the river, Savannah’s outdoor theater is its own cinematic escape.

Shelter Cove Community Park

40 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island

A Hilton Head summer tradition, Shelter Cove Towne Park’s annual “Movie Nights” series welcomes the entire family for a one-of-a-kind movie night — pets included. Beginning Thursday, June 12, Shelter Cove will show a family-friendly movie each week through Aug. 14. Spread lawn chairs or blankets out on the lawn, and watch the sun set over Broad Creek. Then, as the stars begin to appear, the real show begins on a 20-foot inflatable screen. Excite the kids with recent releases like “Mufasa: The Lion King” or “Paddington in Peru,” or parents can reminisce with nostalgic favorites like “Yours, Mine & Ours.” Hungry for an extra special evening? Dine-in or take-out from Shelter Cove’s selection of fine restaurants, and sweets found at Kilwins or Crumbl Cookies make for a happy ending. The series is free and open to the public, and movies play rain or shine at 8:30 p.m. For the full film lineup and more details, follow Shelter Cove’s social media or visit its website.

Town of Bluffton Movie Nights 

Buckwalter Place Park, Bluffton

Bluffton’s beloved Movie Nights in the Park series is back, and it’s bigger, better and more family-friendly than ever. This spring and summer the town is lighting up local parks with free outdoor showings, live music, games and bounce houses that keep the kids happy long before the opening credits roll. Locals flocked to Oscar Frazier Park for “Despicable Me” in April and danced along with “Moana 2” in May at Martin Family Park. Up next: “The Garfield Movie” on June 6 at Buckwalter Place Park. Pack your picnic basket with favorite movie munchies, or give in to the scent of fresh popcorn from the concession stand. The amphitheater at Buckwalter Place adds a little extra movie magic with tiered seating for great views under the stars. And for the little ones who prefer action over intermission, the on-site playground promises plenty of fun, no matter what’s on screen.