5 Outdoor Theatres in Toronto

Maintaining bedtime in summer is almost impossible. Don't fight the night; here are our five favourite outdoor theatres for those summer nights.

Turn a midsummer night's dream into reality by taking in the classic Shakespearean play (A Midsummer Night's Dream), at the Shakespeare in High Park. This west-end outdoor theatre is surrounded by free parking. If you decide to take the ‘better way,' it's a quick walk south of the High Park subway station. Operated by Canadian Stage, Shakespeare in High Park raises the curtain every Tuesday to Sunday at 8 pm through September 2. With their pay-what-you-can policy ($20 is suggested), Canadian Stage asks little in return for an outstanding performance.

We're lucky to have Harbourfront, especially when they play host to several activities for children. A perfect example is the Free Flicks every Wednesday night until August 29 on the WestJet Stage. With this year's theme being Rise of the Underdog, movies like The Social Network and Moneyball are on the bill. While there are plenty of seats (1500 to be exact), we recommend getting there early to enjoy the view of Lake Ontario, browse specialty shops, and marvel at street performers along the well-maintained boardwalk.

Aren't summer block parties the best? Add watching movies outside and a great charity to support and you've got Movies in the Park. Held Sunday August 5 and August 19 in Riverdale Park East, families gather to watch fun films like Back to the Future and The Princess Bride. Admission is free, but you're encouraged to donate to one of the supported children's charities. Bring a picnic and a blanket or camping chairs, and you're set to be entertained.

We checked out the largest outdoor movie screen in Canada at The Docks—located right downtown on the Toronto waterfront. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights you can watch a double feature under the stars. On a busy night you will probably find about 150-200 cars which means there is plenty of room to get a good parking spot and if you only want to watch the first movie, there is enough room to maneuver the car out and get the kids home.

If you are from Oakville, we're sure you've heard of The 5 Drive but if you're not, we think this is news you can use. With three screens showing double features every night, you are guaranteed to find a movie and a night that works for your beloved or the whole family. This is a classic drive-in theatre. The Allen Family has been running movies in Canada since 1917 and they are dedicated to maintaining the nostalgia of the drive-in experience. They sometimes even bring out the old 50s reels as a third show just for fun.