Enjoy Seasonal Cinema with Free Movie Nights at Cubberley Theatre in Palo Alto

Published on December 3, 2025

This holiday season, the Cubberley Community Theatre in Palo Alto is offering two special movie nights that promise to bring joy to families of all ages. Families are invited to enjoy the magic of the season and the excitement of new beginnings with two heartwarming films. Whether you’re looking to embrace the holiday spirit or kick off the new year with a smile, these movie nights offer the perfect opportunity for families to gather and enjoy free entertainment.

The Polar Express: A Magical Journey for the Holidays

The first movie night of the season will take place on December 16, 2025, when Cubberley Theatre screens The Polar Express, a beloved holiday classic. This heartwarming adventure, based on the popular children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, follows a young boy’s magical journey to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Full of wonder, excitement, and a spirit of togetherness, The Polar Express is a timeless film that beautifully captures the magic of Christmas.

With a running time of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, the movie will start at 5:30 PM and run until 8:00 PM. It’s the perfect way for families to get into the holiday spirit. The film’s enchanting animation and memorable soundtrack, which includes the iconic song Believe, will transport viewers into a world of snow, adventure, and holiday cheer.

While this event is completely free, pre-registration is required to secure a seat. Cubberley Theatre has limited capacity, so it’s important to register early to ensure your spot at this festive screening. Families are asked to remember that food and drinks are not permitted inside the theatre, though water is allowed. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the movie in a comfortable, distraction-free environment.

Kick Off the New Year with The Smurfs

After the holiday magic of The Polar Express, Cubberley Theatre is inviting families to ring in the new year with a fun and lighthearted movie screening of The Smurfs on January 14, 2026. This delightful animated film follows the adventures of the tiny blue creatures as they work together to outwit their enemies and navigate through a world full of surprises. The Smurfs’ positive message of teamwork and friendship makes it an ideal choice for a family-friendly New Year celebration.

Starting at 5:30 PM and ending at 8:00 PM, this film offers an evening of laughter and excitement. As the Smurfs remind us, no matter the challenges we face, we can always count on the support of our friends and family. It’s a wonderful way to kick off the new year with a reminder that new beginnings are always full of possibility and joy.

As with the December event, pre-registration is strongly encouraged for the January screening. Families are asked to register in advance to guarantee their seats for this fantastic start to 2026. This ensures that all movie-goers can enjoy the experience without worry and make the most of the evening’s entertainment.

Event Details and What You Need to Know

Both of these family-friendly events will take place at Cubberley Theatre, located at 4120 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto, CA, 94306. The theatre’s cozy, intimate setting is perfect for creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for families to come together and enjoy these classic films.

Registration Information:

• Pre-registration is required for both events to ensure your seat.
• Registration will open soon on the Cubberley Theatre website, so families are encouraged to sign up early.

These events offer a fantastic opportunity for families to come together and celebrate the season in a fun and engaging way. The theatre’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with the magical and adventurous movies, will make for an unforgettable experience. Whether you are visiting for the first time or you’re a regular at Cubberley Theatre, these movie nights are sure to bring joy and laughter to all who attend.

A Wonderful Way to Spend Quality Time with Family

Movie nights like these are more than just entertainment; they’re a way for families to spend quality time together, away from the distractions of daily life. With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, these movie nights at Cubberley Theatre offer a peaceful and enjoyable way to unwind and connect with your loved ones. There’s no better way to embrace the season’s spirit than by sharing a cozy evening watching a heartwarming film. Whether you’re excited about the holiday magic of The Polar Express or eager to start the new year with the cheerful antics of The Smurfs, Cubberley Theatre has something special in store for you. These events are a perfect family outing that promises laughter, warmth, and the joy of cinema.