Summer movie nights are officially back at The Wharf, bringing free outdoor screenings to one of D.C.’s most scenic waterfront destinations.
The annual Sunset Cinema series kicked off this past week and will continue throughout the summer, giving locals and visitors a chance to watch everything from beloved classics and family favorites to recent blockbuster hits.
Set against the backdrop of the Washington Channel, the weekly event has become one of the city’s most popular warm-weather traditions, drawing crowds to Transit Pier for movies, food, drinks, and sunset views.
Whether you’re planning a date night, a family outing, or simply looking for a free thing to do in D.C. this summer, Sunset Cinema is once again offering a packed lineup of films through early September.
When does The Wharf’s summer movie series start?
The Wharf’s 2026 Sunset Cinema season officially began on May 27 with a screening of Everything Everywhere All at Once.
The series takes place every Wednesday evening from Memorial Day week through Labor Day week.
Movies are shown on Transit Pier, located at 970 Wharf Street SW, and begin at 7:30 p.m. each week.
Limited Adirondack chairs are available beginning at 7 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis, though guests are encouraged to bring blankets or folding chairs.
The outdoor screenings offer one of the most unique movie-going experiences in the city, with waterfront views, nearby restaurants, and easy access from both the Waterfront and L’Enfant Plaza Metro stations.
Here’s the full movie lineup for Sunset Cinema 2026
This year’s lineup mixes crowd-pleasing classics, musicals, comedies, and newer releases, creating a schedule with something for nearly every type of movie fan.
The 2026 Sunset Cinema schedule includes:
- May 27 — Everything Everywhere All at Once
- June 3 — Shrek 2
- June 10 — Hairspray
- June 17 — Sinners
- July 1 — National Treasure: Book of Secrets
- July 8 — Hamilton
- July 15 — A League of Their Own
- July 22 — Catch Me If You Can
- July 29 — Apollo 13
- August 5 — Roman Holiday
- August 12 — 10 Things I Hate About You
- August 19 — F1
- August 26 — Project Hail Mary
- September 2 — Double feature: When Harry Met Sally and The First Wives Club
The diverse lineup ranges from family-friendly favorites and romantic comedies to award-winning dramas and nostalgic classics, making it easy to find a screening worth adding to your summer calendar.
Is The Wharf’s summer movie series free to attend?
Yes — Sunset Cinema is completely free to attend and open to the public. No tickets are required for general admission.
Guests are welcome to bring blankets and folding chairs, while food from Wharf restaurants can be enjoyed during the screenings.
The event is also family-friendly, and leashed dogs are welcome.
While outside beverages are not permitted, nearby waterfront venues, including Cantina Bambina, offer drinks and snacks throughout the evening, helping turn movie night into a full summer outing.
