City of God follows Rocket, a teenage photographer in Rio's favelas, as he documents a turf war that swallows his neighborhood — shot on location, cut like a firecracker, and still one of the most kinetic films of the 2000s. Watching it outdoors with the Midtown skyline stacked behind the screen is a completely different animal from watching it at home. This is the 33rd year of the tradition and one of the last genuinely free big-ticket nights of the summer.
What to expect
Thousands of people staking out blanket space from the moment the lawn opens, Hester Street Fair vendors on the Fountain Terrace, and beer and wine for sale to the left of the screen. Captions are displayed for every film, so the Portuguese dialogue reads clearly from anywhere on the lawn. The picnic hour before the film is the real social event — the movie is the excuse.
Good to know
- The gravel opens before the lawn, so arriving early still gets you a legal spot to wait.
- No chairs, tables or plastic ground coverings on the lawn — plastic kills the grass, and staff enforce it.
- Bring a fleece blanket or buy one at the Bryant Park Shop on the Fountain Terrace.
- Bags are inspected at the lawn checkpoints, including on re-entry, so pack light.
- Dogs are not allowed on the lawn.
- Restrooms are on the 42nd Street side and near the carousel on the 40th Street side.
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Common questions
Is it free?
Yes, admission to the lawn is free. Food, drink and blankets are the only things you pay for.
Can I bring my own picnic?
Yes. Outside picnics are welcome, and there are vendors on the Fountain Terrace if you would rather buy.
What happens if it rains?
The lawn opens weather permitting; check Bryant Park's channels the day of, since heavy weather can cancel the screening.
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