CAPE WINELANDS – There’s something undeniably magical about watching a classic film under a canopy of stars, wine glass in hand, surrounded by rolling vineyards and mountain vistas. This summer, The Galileo Open Air Cinema is once again transforming some of the Cape Winelands’ most prestigious estates into enchanting outdoor theatres.
Until April, more than 10 award-winning wine estates across Stellenbosch, Paarl, Franschhoek, Somerset West, and Wellington will host an eclectic mix of romantic comedies, family favorites, and timeless classics. Think Mamma Mia!, Dirty Dancing, La La Land, and The Notebook – all screened as the sun sets over some of South Africa’s most breath-taking landscapes.
The Galileo experience extends far beyond simply watching a movie. Guests arrive early to claim their spots on manicured lawns, where they can enjoy gourmet picnic fare, local wine tastings, sweet treats, and live entertainment before the main feature begins at sunset.
“A Galileo evening is something that will have you recommending it to friends and family for ages,” organisers promise, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of world-class wine, stunning natural amphitheatres, and beloved films creates an atmosphere that’s part cultural event, part romantic escape, and entirely unforgettable.
This season sees the return of beloved venues including Blaauwklippen, Lourensford, Nederburg, Leopard’s Leap and Zevenwacht, among others. These estates span the major Winelands regions, giving film lovers ample opportunity to explore different terroirs while catching their favourite movies.
Particularly exciting is the return of Allée Bleue in Franschhoek – one of the oldest estates in the rotation, established in 1690 – and Rhebokskloof in Paarl, which now boasts a lovely new restaurant to complement its cinema offerings.
For those seeking a more intimate experience, The Galileo Royale elevates the concept with monthly screenings at Nederburg in Paarl and the prestigious Norval Foundation in Constantia. These premium events feature smaller audiences, curated menus with canapés and welcome drinks, and carefully selected films that promise to impress even the most discerning cinephiles.
And as per usual, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town will be dishing up memorable line-up under the shade of Table Mountain.
The 2026-season continues this weekend with the classic tear-jerker romance The Notebook which will be screened on Saturday 17 January at Allée Bleue Wine Estate between Paarl and Franschhoek. On 24 January, everbody’s favourite Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again can be seen at the picturesque Paarl winery, Rhebokskloof.
On Valentine’s Day’s Crazy, Stupid, Love will be screened at Lourensford and a family-friendly screening of The Lion King at Rhebokskloof in March.
Practical details:
- Tickets: From R155 per person via Webtickets
- Gates open: 18:00 weekdays, 17:00 weekends
- Screening time: After sunset
- Special offers: Birthday specials, student and pensioner discounts, and a new Season Pass (6 tickets for the price of 5)
Early arrival is recommended to secure prime lawn real estate and fully experience the pre-show atmosphere of games, music, and socialising that makes Galileo evenings as much about community as cinema.
Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, family outing, or gathering with friends, The Galileo Open Air Cinema offers a uniquely South African way to experience beloved films. In a world of streaming and multiplexes, there’s something deeply satisfying about returning to the simple pleasure of great movies under an endless sky.
For the full Galileo programme and to book your tickets visit www.thegalileo.co.za/movies.
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