The Orpheum Theater is a Cape Cod institution, having opened its doors in 1916. Although the building was temporarily converted into a pharmacy in 1987, the theater was never forgotten.
In 2012, a local group purchased the building and restored it. It’s now a modern cinema that has become the top spot on the Cape to watch new releases, independent films, Hollywood classics, and works by local filmmakers.
There’s something a little different going on at the Chatham Orpheum Theater in the summer of 2024, as they’re hosting free family movies every morning. Here’s everything you need to know about the free movies you can check out this summer.
How It Works
It might sound unbelievable that a theater would host free movies in the summer, but that’s what’s happening at the Chatham Orpheum, and there’s no catch. All you have to do is show up at the box office, and you can grab a free pass for all future shows.
The doors open at 9:00 AM for all free shows, and the movie starts at 9:30. These films are a great way to get your kids out of your vacation rental early in the morning, and they still leave plenty of time to enjoy the beach and other Cape Cod activities afterward.
Movies Playing in 2024
Different free movies are playing every week this summer, so you can check out multiple features if you’re staying on the Cape for over a week.
This year’s lineup includes classics like Free Willy, Babe, Peter Rabbit, Andre, The Tale of Despereaux, Charlotte’s Web, Hotel For Dogs, The Pirates, and Curious George.
You’ll want to look at the schedule to see what’s playing when you’re in the area. However, you should know that you can only grab your free passes in person, so you can’t get them before you arrive on Cape Cod.
Other Films at the Chatham Orpheum Theater
These free movies are great, but if you’re not particularly into any of them, you’ll have other options. This summer, classics like Jurassic Park, E.T., Back to the Future, Austin Powers, Jaws, and Dirty Dancing will be coming to the theater.
Or, if you’re looking for something a little newer and family-friendly, Inside Out 2 is playing, as well. More films will be added as the summer progresses, so keep checking out the schedule if there’s something specific you want to watch at this classic movie theater.
A Different Type of Movie Experience
Going to the movie theater can be exhausting and, most of all, costly. Tickets are increasing in price, and adding a couple of snacks can quickly turn your quick outing into a significant expense.
The Chatham Orpheum Theater is a nonprofit that wants to make cinema accessible to everyone. It’s run by volunteers who aren’t looking to make money but rather keep this hidden gem open in Chatham for generations to come and ensure the next generation can experience a classic movie house.
As a result, admission to other shows is just $10 for kids 12 and under and seniors and $13 for adults. The venue offers an inexpensive way to keep your family entertained and is something worth supporting because of how much good it does for the Chatham community.
Visiting the Chatham Orpheum Theater
The Chatham Orpheum Theater is conveniently located near the downtown rotary on Main Street in Chatham. There’s a massive parking lot behind the building, so finding a spot shouldn’t be difficult, especially in the morning.
There’s also a restaurant called Pizza Shark inside the theater, where you can grab a slice, a sandwich, a snack, or a whole pizza to enjoy during or after the film. That way, you can take the kids for lunch after the movie before starting the rest of your day.
You won’t find many venues like the Chatham Orpheum Theater anymore because most intimate movie houses have made way for massive multiplexes. However, there’s something special about watching a show in a small theater inside a historic building, particularly if you’ve never experienced it before.
Check out the Chatham Orpheum Theater for a free movie this summer. It’s a quick and easy way to watch a film the way they’re meant to be enjoyed and is something you’ll remember about your Cape Cod vacation for years to come.
