Watching a movie in Bryant Park should be on everyone’s summer bucket list, and if you’ve been missing out this year’s lineup will seal the deal. Beginning June 18, movies under the stars are back on the Bryant Park lawn with a new curator, Vulture, bringing a list of cult favorites that will have ‘80s kids packed in all summer.
The free Monday night movie series starts with the John Hughes classic The Breakfast Club, and includes new favorites like Little Miss Sunshine (July 9), quotable hits like The Princess Bride (July 23) and the slightly uncomfortable public viewing experience that will be When Harry Met Sally (July 30).
The films don’t start until sunset (between 8 and 9 p.m.) but you’ll have to get there early to claim a prime spot. The lawn opens at 5 p.m., but if you’re just arriving you’re already too late: People line up to rush in and claim the best spots early in a slightly terrifying territorial frenzy.
While packing a picnic is always an option (no alcohol allowed), the Hester Street Fair has curated a bunch of vendors on the Fountain Terrace next to the lawn, serving food from 4:30-9:30 p.m.
A couple more rules: No dogs, chairs, tables or plastic tarps are allowed on the lawn. Films are close captioned, and while navigating the maze of blankets can be tricky, the park also boasts the city’s nicest public bathrooms on its northwest corner.
Bryant Park Movie Nights run through Aug. 20. Here’s the full schedule:
June 18: The Breakfast Club
June 25: The Philadelphia Story
July 2: A League of Their Own
July 9: Little Miss Sunshine
July 16: Fried Green Tomatoes
July 23: The Princess Bride
July 30: When Harry Met Sally
Aug. 6: The Wiz
Aug. 13: Thelma and Louise
Aug. 20: The Terminator
