For the first time ever, we are mixing penguins and popcorn for three exclusive nights this August with The Luna Cinema!

As day turns to night, soak up the atmosphere, pop the bubbly and get ready for cinema under the stars. ​

We’ll be screening: Grease (PG) 22 August, Top Gun: Maverick (12A) 23 August  and The Greatest Showman (PG) 24 August.

With your £25 ticket, you can also explore the zoo from 3pm, including access to our brand new immersive experience, Planet Shark: Predator or Prey! Then head to The Luna Cinema at 7pm to find your perfect spot, ready for your chosen film to start as the sun sets at 8:30pm.

For any last minute bookings to watch tonight’s screening of The Greatest Showman, please call our Admissions Team on 01244 380280.

Grease (PG) – 22 August

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Top Gun: Maverick (12A) – 23 August

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The Greatest Showman (PG) – 24 August

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We’re wild about movies!

Before the film starts, take in the wonders of the zoo from 3pm – all included in your Luna Cinema ticket!

Explore our brand new, immersive experience, Planet Shark: Predator or Prey and dive into the mysterious underwater world of sharks.

Don’t forget to visit our new arrivals: Sumatran tiger cubs, a Western chimpanzee, and a giant anteater pup!

Tasty treats

Why not book a special pre-movie picnic box with your ticket?

Also, all your usual zoo food and drink favourites will be available!

During the film, the Luna Bar will be offering a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and snacks.

So why not pop the bubbly, grab your popcorn and enjoy cinema under the stars at Chester Zoo!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I’m a member, do I get discounted tickets?

As this is a special event outside of our usual opening hours members and non-members pay the same price. Events like Luna Cinema help us to raise valuable funds to enable Chester Zoo to continue to invest in our mission and the zoo. We really appreciate your support.

What is the best way to get to Chester Zoo?

You can find all the directions and transport options to the zoo here.

What happens if it rains?

The Great British Summer can be unpredictable but that doesn’t stop Luna. Please make sure to check the weather forecast in advance and come prepared. Screenings will always go ahead in the event of bad weather. If the weather catches us by surprise, we have ponchos to give out at the ready. We do ask that you don’t bring umbrellas as they block the view for other customers. Screenings will only be cancelled if the weather conditions present a danger at screening time. In the unlikely event that a screening is cancelled, we will give as much notice as possible and you will be notified of cancellation by SMS and/or email.  Please visit our T&Cs for more information.

Will there be food & drink?

Luna has got everything covered, right down to the drinks. Visit our onsite bar that offers a wide range of alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, as well as hot drinks if you prefer a good cuppa. We also have a delicious selection of hot food and all the classic movie snacks available. To find out what is being served at your venue simply head over to your venue page. [Our Venues]

Can I bring my own food & drink?

This is your night to script how you want. You’re always welcome to bring your own food. Why not have a picnic? Though we ask that you leave any glass bottles and sharp cutlery at home. Whilst we don’t allow pre-purchased alcohol onsite, if you do find yourself with a nice bottle of white, you will be asked to leave it at the entrance. Luna are not able to take responsibility for any items left with us and we ask that guests do not bring pre-purchased alcohol to the site.

Can I bring something to sit on?

Yes, you are welcome to bring backrests, chairs, or blankets to watch the film. If you prefer to travel light, we have blankets and various seating upgrades available to hire or buy, all of which can be found on the website or alternatively purchased onsite subject to availability. Please note, we do not allow tables, tents or gazebos to be brought to our screenings.

 

Can I bring my dog to the screening?

We know it can be tough to leave those cute furry faces behind, but unless they are registered assistance dogs, they’ll have to sit this one out.

What can’t I bring?

The beauty of The Luna Cinema is the feeling of freedom and festivity, for all to enjoy. But for your own and everyone’s safety, security checks and bag searches will be conducted as you enter the event.

  • Any controlled substances (illegal drugs and NPS)
  • Items with an open, naked flame (BBQ’s, gas/camping stoves, LPG, candles, sky lanterns, open fires)
  • Fireworks, laser pens, laser equipment
  • Tents, gazebos, parasols or pop-up structures,
  • Animals (except assistance dogs)
  • Alcohol (unless stated otherwise)
  • Glass bottles and containers
  • Anything sharp – such as knives
  • Large umbrellas
  • Recording equipment
  • Sponsorship, promotional or marketing material for any other business, event or activity

You will be asked to either take these back to your car or to dispose of them.

Is there wheelchair access?

Yes, all our sites have wheelchair access. Please note that some of our outdoor venues may have some uneven ground. Please let us know if you require any additional support and our on-site staff members will be more than happy to help.

Will there be subtitles?

Where we show foreign language films, we will always display subtitles in English. For hearing-impaired customers, we recommend the use of a great little app called ‘Subtitle Viewer’ where you can search up the film and play the subtitles as the film plays.

Will there be filming and photography?

Filming and photography may be in progress at Luna screenings. By entering the event you consent to being filmed or photographed. All official photographers and film crew will have identification.

Can I smoke at the event?

If you wish to smoke or vape, please speak to one of our on-site team who will allow you to leave the site and readmit you when you are finished. Please dispose of your rubbish responsibly.

What are the opening and closing times for this event?

You can enter the zoo from 3pm and doors open to Luna Cinema at 7pm. Films will start at 8.30pm. Film running times:

  • Grease (PG) 1 hr 50 min
  • Top Gun: Maverick (12A) 2 hr 11 min
  • The Greatest Showman (PG) 1 hr 45 min

How much are tickets?

Tickets are £25.

How will I receive tickets? 

If you book online then you’ll receive an email from us with your booking confirmation attached. Bring this booking confirmation with you on your visit to get entry to the zoo and Luna Cinema.

What are the parking arrangements?

There is ample FREE parking at the main entrance to the zoo.