When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Cinespia
Why Cinespia is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cinespia offers a unique and memorable way to enjoy films by transforming iconic Los Angeles locations, most notably the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, into vibrant outdoor movie venues. Founded in 2002, it has become a beloved gathering spot for friends and movie buffs alike who want to experience cinema under the stars. The screenings are held on the Fairbanks Lawn where classic Hollywood movies and some modern favorites are projected onto the mausoleum walls, creating an unforgettable ambiance. Visitors bring their own picnic baskets, blankets, and low chairs to set up a cozy viewing area, encouraging a relaxed and communal atmosphere. The events are much more than just movie screenings; pre-show DJs, themed photo booths, occasional appearances by filmmakers or stars, and onsite food vendors add to the festive environment. Cinespia’s unique setting combines culture, history, and entertainment, making it a great place to meet up with friends, enjoy a beautiful evening, and indulge in the magic of classic and cult films. Highlights include the ability to bring your own picnic or mini BBQ, lively pre-screening music events, and a community vibe that feels as special as the movies themselves.
Here's what people think of Cinespia
As of recent, Cinespia holds a 4.6-star rating based on 303 reviews.
User reviews of Cinespia overwhelmingly praise the experience for its originality and atmospheric setting. Many reviewers enjoy the distinctive backdrop of Hollywood Forever Cemetery, calling it one of the best outdoor movie venues in Los Angeles. The relaxed picnic-style seating and the ability to bring food and drinks elevate the viewing experience, allowing groups of friends to socialize easily while enjoying a film. Positive reviews often highlight the quality of film selection, ranging from timeless classics to cult favorites, and the engaging pre-show entertainment which includes DJs and interactive photo booths. Additionally, attendees appreciate the occasional visits from celebrities and filmmakers which add an exclusive touch. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention challenges such as limited seating options since high chairs are not allowed and the need to bring your own blankets or low chairs, which can be inconvenient for some. Others have noted occasional issues with parking or the price of tickets, which are seen as a bit high by some guests. However, these points do not significantly detract from the overall appeal. In conclusion, reviews reflect that Cinespia offers a magical and culturally rich movie night experience that resonates well with visitors who enjoy both film and social outdoor events, despite minor logistical drawbacks.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Paige G
I'll keep this brief with bullet points. 1) They oversell tickets. People were left sitting on the pavement. For $30 tickets plus $40 + parking, that's just unacceptable. My group got there an hour and thirty minutes before the movie started and we barely found a spot (in the very back). 2) The DJ. It was fine and fun until kids started jumping on stage to dance (which people were invited to do) and the DJ / host were making suggestive sounds and noises. Extremely inappropriate. Mind you it wasn't just once or twice that they suggestively moaned etc .. it was like the entire set prior to the movie. There were children dancing! Unbelievable. 3) $8 for water. 4) People brought tall lawn chairs. I understand it's more comfortable! But not fair for the seating arrangements of others. This needs to be vetted better. 5) There's no lights on when you exit! Small note but if you're older or disabled I feel like that can be dangerous! That being said the venue itself is cool (Hollywood Cemetery) . I've literally never made a google review, but there's just so many things that they got wrong.
Marsha M
This is such a great event! You absolutely have to do this during the summer. Yes, it's in a graveyard, but it's so beautifully designed. You're surrounded by trees. There's fountains and pools, it's really beautiful. Blanket or get fancy and bring low chairs and a table and set up your cheese and charcuterie and champagne and enjoy a fabulous night out.
J D
Came here like 15 times in the last 12-13 years last night was the worst experience. One couple laid down about 3-4 towels saving tiny spots for what seemed like 15 people. When they showed up about 15 people, just before the movie they lined up a wall of chairs which were way higher than what was allowed and blocked about 50-60 people, unfortunately this happened right in front of us… I said something and they just shrugged their shoulders. I didn’t want to make a scene but I won’t be coming back. They need to sell WAY less tickets. This has been a huge problem since the beginning but they don’t enforce the rules of having a low back chair and don’t provide enough space for people to fit. Also a bag of popcorn was $17, a bag of gummy bears was $12, and nachos were $16, a full blown burger was $16. Make it make sense. We bought pop corn before we knew it was $17, then they ask for a tip! Pretty hilarious. Over all crappy set up and experience at this point. We even got there over an hour early to get a good spot and this is what we ended up with
Rubie Valentine
Overpriced!! Bought tickets AND $90 parking just to be piled on a lawn like sardines. There was actually no space at all on the grass to watch comfortably. My girlfriend and I had to set our stuff up on the pavement of the road with barely any view of the screen. People kept walking over us the entire movie. We were also just wandering around beforehand trying to enjoy the scenic parts of the cemetery to get our monies worth at least but one of the staff started YELLING at us to get off the lawn even though it was more than an hour before the movie would start. So unprofessional to be yelling at people. I mean they had some good vendors, but it was insanely crowded with long lines. MAKE SURE TO BRING A LAWN CHAIR…. Very crucial detail if you want to experience this comfortably. They should really have tickets sold for the lawn only or something. It was such a bummer honestly.
Otter Holmes
No longer worth it. Way too overpriced! I've been going for years & have recommended it so much & have taken people for their experience. Yeah, no more! The people who do the photo booths are rude. It appears they sell more overpriced tickets than there is space available for seating. $8 for a bottle of water?!? Is this Dodger stadium?!? They should rename the slumber party event. A slumber party consists of leaving the next morning! Where you sleep. If you can, snag a ticket for one of the free events, if they still do those. Better off going to another one in town & just visit the cemetery during the day.
How to reach Cinespia
None
Website: None
Why Cinespia may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cinespia with your friends? Because it offers an extraordinary blend of cinematic magic and social connection in some of Los Angeles’s most iconic and atmospheric settings. Imagine gathering under the stars on a warm evening, nestled on the grass or your favorite picnic blanket, surrounded by friends, all sharing the communal experience of watching classic and cult films projected onto grand outdoor screens. The unique backdrop of the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where many screenings take place, adds a mysterious and enchanting ambiance you won’t find at any typical movie theater. Beyond the movies, Cinespia offers an event that feels like a celebration—a place to relax, laugh, and immerse yourself in film history while engaging with a lively crowd that shares your passion for movies. It’s the perfect excuse to dress up, pack a picnic, tune in to pre-show DJs, snap photos in themed booths, and enjoy quality time together that transforms any typical night out into a memorable occasion. With a 4.6-star rating from over 300 reviews, this vibrant cultural gathering spot has clearly captured the hearts of many, making it an ideal venue for meetups with friends or family.
What activities does Cinespia offer for groups, and why is it the perfect spot for a meetup? One of the hallmarks of Cinespia is its outdoor classic film screenings, primarily hosted at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. These screenings run primarily from May through September, giving attendees a whole season of opportunities to come together under the sky to watch timeless movies. Unlike a typical cinema, there’s no fixed seating, so groups can spread out with blankets, low chairs, and picnic baskets, creating a cozy, relaxed environment that encourages conversation before, during intermission, and after the film. You can bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a picnic, or sample offerings from onsite vendors and pop-up concessions, enhancing the outdoor social experience. Many events feature lively pre-show DJs who set the tone for the evening and themed photo booths where groups can capture the moment. Occasionally, filmmakers, stars, or experts attend screenings, adding an exclusive touch of insider excitement to the event. These varied activities make Cinespia a multifaceted venue where you can enjoy a film and participate in a festive cultural gathering with friends or loved ones.
How does the venue and atmosphere contribute to Cinespia’s appeal for group gatherings? The choice of venue plays a significant role. The Hollywood Forever Cemetery, used for many summer screenings, is not just any outdoor space; it is a historic landmark known for its cultural significance and eerie beauty. Watching a movie projected onto a mausoleum, surrounded by the serene but evocative surroundings of this cemetery, creates a deeply immersive experience unlike conventional theaters or typical outdoor screenings. This environment invites a shared sense of adventure and creates long-lasting impressions for groups who come to see a movie but leave with memories of a magical evening. For those who prefer a more traditional cinema experience, Cinespia also hosts events year-round at historic downtown Los Angeles movie palaces, which are beautifully restored Art Deco theaters. These events offer first-come, first-served seating and optional premium tickets providing reserved areas, bars, DJs, and photo booths, ideal for groups looking to combine classic film-viewing with a night out in a stylish, social atmosphere. Both venue types emphasize scenic ambiance, history, and conviviality, making Cinespia a versatile option for various group preferences.
Why is Cinespia’s unique event production a draw for meetups? Cinespia’s events stand out for the thoughtful curation of films and complementary entertainment elements. Their movie selections include classic Hollywood hits, cult favorites, and genre staples ranging from horror to comedy to romance, catering to diverse tastes within a group. The outdoor screenings often feature themed events with costume contests, trivia, and giveaways, encouraging active participation and shared fun among attendees. One high-profile example is their Halloween parties featuring iconic horror films, complete with themed decor, DJ sets, light-up dance floors, and free candy giveaways, transforming movie watching into a full-on festive celebration. Such events deepen the social connection among participants and give friends or family endless opportunities to bond beyond just watching a movie. Moreover, Cinespia’s commitment to producing private screenings, fundraisers, and television or film premieres throughout the year expands the venue’s appeal to those seeking more exclusive and tailored group experiences. This capacity for diverse programming makes Cinespia a cultural hub that hosts more than films—it hosts moments of connection and joy shared with others.
What practical details should groups know before attending Cinespia events? Since many screenings at the cemetery are outdoors and do not provide seating, groups are encouraged to bring picnic blankets, low chairs, pillows, and their own food for maximum comfort and convenience. Alcoholic beverages are often available for purchase on-site at certain events, but outside food and drink policies vary depending on the venue, especially for downtown movie palace screenings where outside food and beverages are prohibited and concession stands are available. Parking can be a challenge in some locations, particularly downtown, so taking public transit or arriving early is recommended. Tickets are typically scanned at entry, and printing tickets at home or downloading barcodes to a smartphone are both options. For better seating and faster entry, purchasing premium tickets offers perks such as reserved seating, shorter lines, and special access. Groups should check Cinespia’s event calendar and website frequently for schedules, special thematic events, and detailed venue instructions to plan a smooth and enjoyable outing. Being prepared enhances the overall experience and allows groups to focus on relaxation, entertainment, and social connection.
How does Cinespia strengthen social and cultural ties through its events? Beyond being a movie screening service, Cinespia plays a vital role in the cultural scene of Los Angeles by bringing people together in historic and evocative venues. The program fosters a sense of community by offering rare access to venues like the Hollywood Forever Cemetery or historic downtown movie palaces, allowing attendees to appreciate both cinema and local history simultaneously. These settings deepen attendee engagement and provide meaningful contexts to the shared cinematic experience, cultivating conversations and connections among film lovers and newcomers alike. Cinespia’s events also extend beyond film, often integrating concerts, literature events, lectures, and large cultural celebrations such as the Dia de Los Muertos festival at Hollywood Forever, which is the largest of its kind in the US. This diversity of programming enriches social gatherings, making Cinespia a cultural epicenter where groups can enjoy a variety of enriching experiences year-round. This holistic approach to community-building through entertainment makes it an unmatched venue choice for significant meetups.
In summary, Cinespia is an exceptional venue offering a unique blend of classic cinema, atmospheric settings, and cultural celebration that creates unforgettable experiences perfect for gathering with friends or family. Its outdoor screenings at Hollywood Forever Cemetery provide a rare fusion of film magic and historic ambiance, inviting groups to relax, socialize, and celebrate under the stars. The variety of events, from classic films to lively Halloween parties and private screenings at elegant downtown movie palaces, ensures there is always something fresh and exciting to explore. By attending Cinespia’s events, groups don’t just watch movies—they participate in a vibrant cultural tradition that deepens social ties and creates lasting memories in the heart of Los Angeles. With a high rating and a reputation for compelling programming, Cinespia truly stands out as a premier choice for social meetups centered on shared cinematic enjoyment.