Open-air floating cinema returns to Montreal’s Parc Jean-Drapeau pool

Montrealers are about to gather for a floating open-air cinema experience like no other, as the Floating Cinema returns this summer to Parc Jean-Drapeau.

First launched in 2019, the event invites guests to enjoy a film with their feet in the water and their heads in the clouds.

“We’re always striving to create unique and memorable experiences for our visitors, showcasing our sports facilities and the natural beauty of the park—a true urban gem in the heart of Montreal,” said the Jean-Drapeau organization in an email sent to CityNews.

Tuesday night’s screening is FLOW by Gints Zilbalodis, winner of the most recent Oscar for Best Animated Feature.

“I was just talking to my boyfriend about watching a movie inside the pool, just amazing and the heat is like 40 degrees today so it’s just perfect,” said Natasha Depina, attendee.

“I love the water and I love spending time outside and this is a movie I’ve actually been meaning to watch, so yeah it just really worked out,” said Justine Lapointe, attendee.

These floats were originally used during the Jean-Drapeau Snow Festival in winter 2020. Now, they’ve been repurposed to create a whole new experience in one of Montreal’s most iconic urban spaces.

“We believe that what people seek most are moments of authenticity and connection. Outdoor cinema often evokes childhood memories, vacations, or summer evenings spent outside. It stirs a sense of nostalgia—a feeling of freedom we associate with summer and the simple joy of living in the moment,” said the organization.

“It’s nice to be out of the city and the Parc Jean-Drapeau it has a nice pool that we wanted to explore this summer so we don’t get to come here often so the ambience, it’s pretty nice,” said Frederick Roy, attendee.

“I always like going to outdoor screenings and I’ve never been to one where I’m in the water so that’s pretty unique and how fitting for a movie that’s set mostly in the water,” said another attendee.

This is the second edition of the summer, and organizers encourage film lovers to keep an eye on the park’s website and Facebook page for future screenings: “Tickets sold out very quickly, and we’re seriously considering adding a third screening. Stay tuned!”

“I hope they do more sessions because it’s just amazing, everybody should try once at least,” said Depina.