Canary Wharf Summer Screens 2026 returns to East London with three months of free outdoor films, live sport and entertainment. Taking place in Canada Square Park from Thursday 4 June to Tuesday 1 September 2026, it remains one of the biggest and most popular free summer events in London.
From blockbuster films and family favourites to Wimbledon screenings, gaming tournaments and live music quizzes, this year’s programme is the most ambitious yet — and completely free to attend.
What Is Canary Wharf Summer Screens?
Canary Wharf Summer Screens is an annual outdoor entertainment programme held in Canada Square Park, in the heart of Canary Wharf.
A large outdoor screen hosts:
- Free film screenings
- Live sport broadcasts
- Gaming events
- Music and quiz nights
Visitors can bring blankets, food and enjoy a relaxed, open-air atmosphere. Deckchairs are available on a first-come basis, but arriving early is recommended during busy events.
Film Schedule 2026 (Highlights)
Evening Screenings (Tuesdays – 7pm)
June
- 9 June — Wicked: For Good
- 16 June — Swim Sistas + The Shape of Water
- 23 June — But I’m a Cheerleader
July
- 14 July — F1: The Movie
August
- 4 August — Barbie
- 11 August — Grease
- 18 August — Superman
- 25 August — I Swear
- 31 August — The Playboy of the Western World (Bank Holiday special)
Family Screenings (Weekend Mornings – 10:30am)
June
- Zootropolis 2
- The Little Mermaid
- Matilda the Musical
- Love, Simon
July
- Monsters, Inc.
- My Name Is Khan
- Lilo & Stitch
August
- Wall-E
- Babe
- Mamma Mia!
These are perfect for families looking for free weekend activities in London.
Live Sport on the Big Screen
Wimbledon Championships (29 June – 12 July)
- Daily coverage
- Finals shown live:
- Ladies’ Final: 11 July
- Gentlemen’s Final: 12 July
Commonwealth Games (23 July – 2 August)
- Daily highlights and live coverage
Cricket (England Test Matches)
- Selected matches throughout summer
Watching live sport outdoors here is one of the best free summer experiences in London.
Mario Kart Championship 2026
A major crowd favourite returns with:
- Multiple qualifying heats (June–August)
- Grand Final: 20 August
Open to all ages, plus relaxed family gaming sessions on weekends.
Sounds Familiar Music Quiz
Ticketed (not free), but very popular:
- 19 June – 7pm
- 20 June – 2pm
- 7 August – 7pm
- 8 August – 2pm
Expect high-energy music rounds covering decades of hits.
What Else to Do in Canary Wharf
Make a full day of your visit:
- Sea Lanes (floating outdoor swimming pool)
- GoBoat (self-drive boats)
- Fairgame (arcade-style games)
- Over 300 restaurants, cafés and bars
- 16+ acres of parks and waterside areas
How to Get There
Location: Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf, London E14
Transport:
- Jubilee Line — Canary Wharf
- Elizabeth Line — Canary Wharf
- DLR — Canary Wharf
- Thames Clipper — Canary Wharf Pier
One of the best-connected locations in London.
What to Bring
- Blanket or picnic mat
- Food and drinks (picnics allowed)
- Light jacket for evenings
Why This Event Is Worth Visiting
Canary Wharf Summer Screens stands out because:
- It’s completely free
- It runs for nearly 3 months
- It combines film, sport, and entertainment
- It’s accessible and family-friendly
Few events in London offer this level of value + variety + atmosphere.
FAQs
Is Canary Wharf Summer Screens free?
Yes — all films, sport screenings and gaming events are free. Only the music quiz requires tickets.
Do I need to book tickets?
No booking is needed for most events. Just arrive early for a good spot.
Can I bring my own food?
Yes — picnics are allowed, and there is no corkage fee.
What time do films start?
Evening films usually start at 7pm, and family films at 10:30am.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes — well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for free things to do in London summer 2026, Canary Wharf Summer Screens is one of the best options in the city.
With a strong mix of films, live sport, and interactive events in a central location, it offers something for everyone — whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or just looking for a relaxed evening outdoors.
All programme information in this article is based on confirmed details from Canary Wharf Group as of April 2026. Events and schedules are subject to change — always check canarywharf.com for the latest information before travelling.
