You can watch these fun (or scary) movies under the stars this summer

Two outdoor movie series are launching in Knoxville, featuring family-friendly films and cult classics. According to event details, Ijams Nature Center will host “Movies Under the Stars” with ticketed events, while Knox County’s “Sunset Cinema” will offer free family movies at various local parks through August.

The two programs offer different experiences for residents. Ijams Nature Center focuses on a mix of family fare, cult favorites and horror classics on its Visitor Center lawn. Knox County’s Sunset Cinema focuses on family movies across multiple park locations.

How do the Ijams and Knox County movie series compare?

The primary differences involve cost and location. According to the event details, Sunset Cinema movies are free and rotate through Powell Station Park, Carter Park, Sportspark, Clayton Park, and The Cove at Concord Park. Movies Under the Stars takes place exclusively at the Ijams Visitor Center lawn and requires tickets.

Ijams tickets cost $12 for the general public and $10 for Ijams and Central Cinema members. Knox County’s series includes pre-movie activities starting at 7 p.m., while Ijams opens its doors at 7 p.m. with films starting at dark.

Did You Know? Ijams Nature Center prohibits coolers and outside alcohol, though food trucks and an on-site beer garden will provide refreshments.

What is the schedule for Movies Under the Stars at Ijams?

The Ijams series runs from June through October. According to the schedule, “A League of Their Own” plays June 12, followed by a “Terror in the Woods” double-feature of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and “Wrong Turn” on June 27.

Later dates include “All Dogs Go to Heaven” on July 10, “Napoleon Dynamite” on Aug. 28, “Moulin Rouge” on Sept. 4, and “Lord of the Rings” on Sept. 18. The series concludes Oct. 2 with “Carrie.”

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the programming strategy creates a distinct divide between the two series. By blending niche cult classics and horror with family titles, Ijams targets a broader adult demographic, whereas Knox County’s free model maximizes accessibility for families.

Where can you watch Sunset Cinema: Movies in the Park?

Knox County’s free series rotates through several venues. According to the schedule, “Wicked for Good” shows June 12 at Powell Station Park, and “How to Train Your Dragon” shows June 26 at Carter Park.

Free outdoor movies coming to Lincoln parks this summer

“Jurassic World Rebirth” will play July 10 at Sportspark, followed by “Lilo and Stitch” on July 24 at Clayton Park. The series finishes Aug. 7 with “Jaws” at The Cove at Concord Park.

What may happen next for these event series?

Since Ijams Nature Center recommends buying tickets ahead of time due to limited space, some screenings could sell out quickly. This may lead to increased demand for the free Knox County alternatives.

Updates for the Sunset Cinema series are likely to be posted on the Knox County Parks and Rec Facebook page. Depending on attendance, the organizers may consider similar outdoor programming for future seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pets allowed at the Ijams movie screenings?
Yes, dogs are permitted as long as they remain on a leash.

What time do the movies start?
At Ijams, movies start once it gets dark, which is around 9 p.m. in the summer and 8 p.m. in the fall. For Sunset Cinema, movies begin at dusk.

How do I get tickets for the Ijams movies?
Tickets can be purchased at ijams.org/movies-under-the-stars.

Which of these outdoor movie lineups is your favorite?