Galileo Theatre returns: Here is what to expect

by Staff Bona

We know that summer is around the corner once The Galileo Open Air Cinema releases its line-up. Kicking off from 15 October 2025, look forward to the return of picnics and outdoor movies under a canopy of the Cape’s beautiful starlit skies. 

This summer brings exciting new concepts, including live sport screenings, dog-friendly shows, themed nights, exclusive Royale experiences, and spectacular new venues alongside all of the fan favourites that make Galileo great. 

What to expect in October 

Guests can expect a carefully curated mix of classic and contemporary movies. Each week typically has four shows, from Wednesday to Saturday, with a variety of family-fun, romance, drama or action to choose from. The Galileo Open Air Cinema offers the ultimate setting for an enchanting evening with friends, romantic date nights, birthday celebrations or family gatherings. 

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory marks The Galileo’s first family-friendly Friday at Kirstenbosch on 17 October. The reintroduction of the exclusive and intimate Galileo Royale kicks off at the Norval Foundation at Steenberg with The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel on Thursday, 23 October. Enjoy an elevated experience with fewer people, complimentary canapés, meals and a welcome drink. 

That is followed by The Secret Life of Pets on Friday, 24 October at Central Park. This is a dog-friendly show, meaning you can buy a ticket for your VID (Very Important Dog), which goes towards saving street dogs through The Galileo’s partnership with African Tails. 

An exciting premiere month comes to a close with the first of the popular Special Shows this season – Halloween. The week is themed around horror and psychological thrillers (and a PG-rated classic for the kids) such as Gone Girl, Drive, Halloween (2018) and Monsters Inc. These tickets sell out fast, so book now to confirm your Halloween plans. 

Stunning venues 

Book a movie ticket and get the bonus of access to some of the most stunning locations across the Cape. From Wednesday to Friday, shows are hosted at the picturesque Kirstenbosch Garden – the epitome of the awesome Galileo cinema experience. 

With Table Mountain as a backdrop, the rolling lawns of Kirstenbosch behind the screen, and local flora hugging you on either side of the lawn, it is no wonder this venue is synonymous with The Galileo’s magic. 

Selected Fridays light up Central Park in Century City and Battery Park or the Croquet Lawn at the V&A Waterfront. Saturdays are all about exploring the Cape Winelands, including spectacular wine and farm estates such as Lourensford, Diemersfontein, Rhebokskloof, Asara, Plaisir, Morgenhof and more. 

All welcome 

The Galileo is designed to delight every kind of moviegoer. From tweens to retirees, The Galileo has ticket discounts, upgraded VIP options and the opportunity to pack your own picnic or enjoy delicious eats from trusted on-site vendors. Whether you’re looking to impress on a date or bring the whole family for a fun afternoon and evening out, your options are limitless. 

The Galileo is a favourite among those who know, with many loyal fans joining multiple shows a season, for many seasons in a row. That’s why they’ve launched the Season Pass, which is a Buy-5-Get-6 ticket bundle, for their die-hard movie lovers. 

But for those out of the loop, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. If you’re the latter, why not try something new this summer and invite family and friends to make magical movie memories under the stars? 

 

 First published on Cape {Town} etc

Also see: 10 Activities you can do for free on your birthday in Cape Town