The Paramount Summer Classic Film Series Returns

For over half a century, spending a summer evening watching a movie at the Paramount Theatre has been a classic Austin tradition. The annual Summer Classic Film Series is back for its 2026 run, which started on May 22 and continues through August 30. It is a favorite ritual for local film lovers looking to escape the Texas heat. This year brings a unique twist to the experience: the historic Paramount Theatre at 713 Congress Avenue is closing in mid-June for its first major renovation in more than fifty years. However, the film series is not stopping. Screenings are moving to alternative venues nearby, including the State Theatre just next door at 719 Congress Avenue, and the Hyperreal Film Club over in East Austin at 301 Chicon Street.

If you are looking to plan a movie night over the next few weeks, the late July and August lineup has plenty of options. On Wednesday, July 22, you can catch the 80th-anniversary screening of Alfred Hitchcock's Notorious, with doors opening at 6:30 PM. The following night, Thursday, July 23, features a 30th-anniversary screening of Trainspotting. The weekend wraps up on Sunday, July 26, with a family-friendly afternoon showing of Space Jam at 2:30 PM, followed by a nostalgic double feature of Grease and High School Musical starting at 6:00 PM. Moving into mid-week, Hitchcock fans can return on Wednesday, July 29, for the 75th-anniversary screening of Strangers on a Train.

August keeps the momentum going with a mix of celebrated classics and modern favorites. On Saturday, August 1, the schedule features A Streetcar Named Desire at 2:00 PM and Mamma Mia! at 6:00 PM. The next day, Sunday, August 2, offers Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away at 2:00 PM and Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas at 6:00 PM. Other highlights later in the month include Reservoir Dogs on Thursday, August 6, a double feature of The Princess Diaries and its sequel on Sunday, August 9, and a 40th-anniversary screening of Ferris Bueller's Day Off on Friday, August 14. Whether you want to experience these films in the intimate 305-seat State Theatre or check out the creative pop-up environment of the Hyperreal Film Club, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy great cinema in downtown Austin this summer.