Your Guide to Five Free Movie Nights Under the Stars at Flicks at the Fountain

We’re less than a month away from the return of Flicks at the Fountain, and summer movie nights in Carlsbad Village can’t come soon enough.

Beginning July 9, the Fountain Parking Lot at State and Grand (2898 State St.) will once again transform into an outdoor movie theater, welcoming families, friends, neighbors, and visitors for five Thursday nights of free movies under the stars.

Movie Dates:

July 9 – Zootopia 2
July 16 – Beethoven
July 23 – Aladdin 
July 30 – How to Train Your Dragon (2025)
August 6 – Superman (2025)

Already have the movie lineup marked on your calendar? Here’s what else you need to know before opening night.

Arrive Early and Make an Evening of It

The parking lot opens at 6 PM each Thursday (movies usually begin around 8PM), and if you’ve been before, you know the pre-movie hours are part of the experience.

Bring your blankets and low-back chairs, claim your spot, then take a stroll through Carlsbad Village to pick up dinner, dessert, snacks, or a refreshing drink before settling in for the movie.

Want to stay put? Knockout Pizza will be on-site every week taking orders and delivering pizza directly to your seat.

The Fun Starts Before the Movie

While the movies may be the main attraction, there’s plenty happening before the opening credits roll.

Kids crafts and activities begin around 6 PM each week, giving young moviegoers something to enjoy while they wait for showtime.

New this year, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad will host themed activities during Zootopia 2 on July 9, Beethoven on July 16, and Superman on August 6. Kids can enjoy hands-on projects inspired by the films, including the chance to create their own Superman cape before the season finale.

On July 23, the North Coastal Art Gallery’s Mad Hatters will be joining us! Kids aged 4-13 (and those young at heart) can tap into their imaginations to craft a hat that’s as unique as they are. On July 30, Trivia Tim will get the crowd involved with super fun rounds of Music Bingo!

Whether you’re joining us for one movie or all five, Flicks at the Fountain is one of Carlsbad Village’s favorite summer traditions and the perfect way to spend a summer evening by the fountain.

The countdown is officially on. We’ll see you July 9!