Beijing turns summer nights into open-air movie theaters

This summer, movie lovers in Beijing have got more chances to enjoy films beneath a night sky.

From cultural parks and historic neighborhoods to the foot of the Great Wall, Beijing will host dozens of outdoor screenings this summer. The events are part of the 2026 Beijing Summer Film Carnival, being held ahead of the 38th China Movie Awards, also known as the Hundred Flowers Awards.

The carnival kicked off at Longfu Temple in Beijing on Wednesday. In addition to 53 outdoor screenings at 12 locations across the city, more than 3,000 public screening sites will show films that have won awards at previous editions of the Hundred Flowers Awards.

The event will also expand beyond movie screenings. Beijing will combine films with local experiences, including city walks, food, markets and exhibitions. More than 1,000 local businesses will join the campaign, offering discounts and other perks to moviegoers.

Established in 1962, the Hundred Flowers Awards is one of China's longest-running film awards. Its winners are chosen by audiences rather than only by film professionals. This has given the awards a close connection with moviegoers.