Best Guide to The Matadero Outdoor Cinema 2023

Rekindling Cinematic Magic: The Enchanting Matadero Outdoor Cinema, Madrid

The Matadero outdoor cinema in Madrid. I have spent so many evenings here, and so many days checking out events from live music to bmx shows !!

I came upon the Matadero Market in Madrid by chance a long time ago. I was out for a walk in the center of Madrid as always, and my aim was to go to the Rastro market. I walked a little too far and found myself in from of this giant wall and could hear music coming from inside. 

So I went in to investigate, and found a hidden gem in Madrid. There were exhibition rooms, artisan stores selling unique clothes, bars, live music playing, food trucks. I found out a lot more about the Matadero after, and turns out its a really popular spot for locals and travelers. 

They regularly put on special events at the Matadero like concerts, food markets, special exhibitions, but one of our favorites is the outdoor cinema at Matadero. It’s an unforgettable experience to watch something on the big screen here, the clear sky above, the warm weather and some good company. 

What is the Matadero in Madrid?

The Matadero literally translates into ¨slaughterhouse¨. It was once a bustling slaughterhouse where merchants and stores you to come from far and wide to purchase their meat. 

But it has since undergone a complete transformation and is now a clutural hub in Madrid. Most of the walls have been restored to their original state, and the mesh of the old and the new go together really well. 

The exhibition hall is really big, the ceilings are large and the exposed brick wallsgive you the feel of standing somewhere hostoric. But then the exhibition brings you right back to current day, and I always get a strange feeling. 

When they were working here back in the day, would they ever of imagined it becoming what it is today. Then from my perspective to think of all that happened here, all the lives that were lived. But I feel better in the end to know the space is now used to spread culture to the masses. 

The Cinema at the Matadero Madrid

It is my favorite outdoor cinema in Madrid, if I am going with friends. Theres another outdoor cinema in Madrid in Canillas where I live, and I always go there with the kids, so this one has a special place for me. 
 
As night descends on the city, and the weather begins to cool down, the screen comes on and it illuminates the surrounding areas. The light bouncing off the old brick walls is quite the contrast to the amount of technology going in to the experience you are about to have. 
 
People from the nearby bars start to filter over to their seats, it’s a very friendly and relaxed environment, and the films are carefully curated and their is usually something on the program to suit most tastes. 
 
Other than the regular programming during the summer months, they also host film festivals and special screenings. I have gotten into some really interesting conversations with real movie buffs at the cinema, a great way to make friends with others that have similar taste. 
 

When is the Cinema at Matadero Open

In 2023, the Matadero Cinema is open from the 13th of July – 13th of August from Thursday to Sunday nights. Here is the programming for this season:

Movies Showing at The Matadero In July 2023

Thursday, July 13

  • 22:15h – Notas sobre un verano (Diego Llorente, 2021)

Friday, July 14

  • 22:15h – Las hijas (Kattia G. Zúñiga, 2023)

Saturday, July 15

  • 22:15h – Voyages en Italie (Sophie Letourneur, 2023)

Sunday, July 16

  • 22:15h – Afterwater (Dane Komljen, 2022)

Thursday, July 20

  • 22:15h – Bentu (Salvatore Mereu, 2022)

Friday, July 21

  • 22:15h – Tant que le soleil frappe (Beating Sun) (Philippe Petit, 2022)

Saturday, July 22

  • 22:15h – Dos dies i l’eternitat (Marc Esquirol, 2023)

Sunday, July 23

  • 22:15h – Clorindo Testa (Mariano Llinás, 2022)

Thursday, July 27

  • 22:15h – Memoryland (Mien ký uc) (Kim Quy Bui, 2021)

Friday, July 28

  • 22:15h – Trois nuits par semaine (Florent Gouëlou, 2022)

Saturday, July 29

  • 22:15h – Copenhaguen Does Not Exist (København findes ikke) (Martin Skovbjerg, 2023)

Sunday, July 30

  • 22:15h – Misión a Marte (Amat Vallmajor del Pozo, 2022)

Movies Showing at The Matadero In August 2023

Thursday, August 3

  • 22:00h – Coconut Head Generation (Alain Kassada, 2023)

Friday, August 4

  • 22:00h – A criança (Marguerite de Hillerin, Félix Dutilloy-Liégeois, 2022)

Saturday, August 5

  • 22:00h – Sean Eternxs (Raúl Perrone, 2022)

Sunday, August 6

  • 22:00h – Shivamma (Jaishankar Aryar, 2022)

Thursday, August 10

  • 22:00h – Common Birds (Silvia Maglioni, Graeme Thomson, 2019)

Friday, August 11

  • 22:00h – The Happiest Man in the World (Teona Strugar Mitevska, 2022)

Saturday, August 12

  • 22:00h – Nação Valente (Tommy Guns) (Carlos Conceição, 2022)

Sunday, August 13

  • 22:00h – L’îlot (Like an Island) (Tizian Büchi, 2022)

FAQ’s

Q: Where is the Matadero Outdoor Cinema Madrid located?
A: The Matadero Outdoor Cinema is located a short walk from Legazpi Metro station. 

Q: What types of movies are shown at the outdoor cinema?
A: The outdoor cinema showcases a carefully curated selection of films, ranging from timeless classics to cutting-edge masterpieces, encompassing diverse genres and thought-provoking storytelling.

Q: Are the screenings free or ticketed?
A: Most screenings at the Matadero Outdoor Cinema Madrid are free of charge. However, some special events or film festivals may have ticketed entry. Make sure you check the specific screening details for any admission requirements.

Q: What time do the screenings usually start?
A: The screenings at the Matadero Outdoor Cinema typically start in the evening around dusk, providing a magical atmosphere under the starry skies. The exact start times may vary, but they are generally around 22:00h (10:00 PM).

Q: Is seating provided at the outdoor cinema?
A: Yes, comfortable seating arrangements, including both traditional and contemporary options.

Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks to the outdoor cinema?
A: Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the screenings. You can probably get away with a beer, but always ask. 

Q: Are there any special events or guest appearances at the outdoor cinema?
A: Yes, the Matadero Outdoor Cinema frequently hosts special screenings, film festivals, and interactive events, which may include appearances by acclaimed directors, actors, and industry professionals. 

Q: Is the outdoor cinema accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the Matadero Outdoor Cinema Madrid provides accessibility for all visitors. The venue offers facilities and accommodations to ensure that individuals with disabilities can enjoy the cinematic experience comfortably.

Q: Is the outdoor cinema suitable for children?
A: The Matadero Outdoor Cinema presents a diverse range of films, including family-friendly selections. It is recommended to check the movie ratings or consult the event program to determine the suitability for children.

Q: Is there parking available near the outdoor cinema?
A: The Matadero district offers parking facilities nearby, but availability and specific parking details may vary. It is advisable to check local parking options or consider using public transportation to reach the venue conveniently.

So if you are looking for an Outdoor cinema in Madrid, make sure you give the Matadero a try. Even if you don’t go to watch a film, ¡go and see an exhibition, sit at one of the bars, listen to some good music. 

Whatever the weather, there is always something cool happening here. Let me know how it goes, love to hear your experiences in the comments.