Ghosts on the Screen, Spirits in the Shadows

Watch horror films in the haunting atmosphere of the george street alfresco terraces at ghost festival’s ghost cinema.

This Halloween, Ghost Festival brings the eerie to life with the Ghost Cinema Experience—an outdoor screening set in the haunted grounds of George Street Alfresco Terraces, one of The Rocks' oldest and most mysterious sites. From 31 October to 3 November, this historic landmark will be transformed into a chilling open-air cinema, offering an unforgettable fusion of classic horror films and real-life ghost stories.

Ghost cinema: a haunting you can’t escape.

As night falls, the George Street Alfresco Terraces—known for their eerie history and ghostly legends—become the setting for a cinema experience unlike any other. This isn’t just an ordinary movie night; it’s a descent into the unknown. The sandstone walls and paths of George Street have long been whispered about, with stories of lost sailors whose souls are said to haunt the area, eternally wandering these shadowy streets. Their presence adds an unsettling layer to the Ghost Cinema, making it more than just a movie screening—it’s an encounter with the supernatural.

Under the stars, horror films come to life in an environment steeped in ghostly whispers and chilling winds. Each film takes on a new level of terror when set against the haunted backdrop of George Street’s terraces. With every flicker of the screen and rustle of the wind, you’ll find yourself asking: is that just a breeze, or is one of the sailors' ghosts watching from the shadows?

A day of spooky fun, a night of pure terror.

The Ghost Cinema offers a full day of movie experiences that escalate in intensity as the hours tick by. During the day, expect family-friendly spooky fun—light-hearted scares and eerie yet playful films perfect for all ages. But as the sun sets and the shadows grow long, the mood shifts. By the midnight session, you’ll be gripping your seat with fear and unease, as the most terrifying films take you to the edge of horror. The gradual build-up ensures that by the time the last film ends, you’ll be questioning every sound, every shadow, and whether you’re truly alone.

Every film shown at the Ghost Cinema draws its power from the chilling atmosphere of its surroundings. The real terror isn’t just on the screen—it’s all around you. With the historic and haunted grounds adding a palpable layer of fear, this immersive cinema experience will leave you trembling long after the credits roll. 

Spooky snacks & haunting beverages.

To heighten the experience, a tempting menu of movie snacks will be available to keep your nerves steady. Choose from popcorn, chicken popcorn, and classic snacks like M&M's and chips, while you sip on soft drinks or warm yourself up with a cup of mulled cider as the spooky scenes unfold. For those feeling brave, there’s always an extra chill in the air—so grab your drink and hold on tight.