As part of its 25th ‘Discover U’ anniversary celebration, Universal Studios Japan is set to host its first-ever movie screening event for a limited time this summer. Beginning this June, Cinema Night Picnic: Discover U!!! will offer guests free screenings of iconic Universal films featured throughout the park, including beloved classics such as Back to the Future and E.T..
The free-admission limited-time screening event will be held at Gramercy Park lawn in the New York area. Screening on weekends throughout June, guests can enjoy Hollywood masterpieces featured in the park, such as “Jurassic Park,” “Waterworld” and “Jaws,” alongside films previously represented films such as “Back to the Future” (now Despicable Me Minion Mayhem) and “E.T.”., which was replaced by Space Fantasy – The Ride.
Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or sheet to sit on during the screening. To allow you to enjoy snacks like popcorn and churros while watching the movie, the popcorn cart next to Gramercy Park and the food cart in front of Space Fantasy – The Ride will extend their operating hours.
Cinema Night Picnic ~Discover U!!!~ Schedule
| Schedule | Start time | Film Title |
| Friday, June 5, 2026 | 17:30 | Jaws |
| Saturday, June 6, 2026 | 18:30 | Wicked |
| Sunday, June 7, 2026 | 18:30 | Jurassic Park |
| Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 18:30 | The Blues Brothers |
| Sunday, June 14, 2026 | 18:00 | Backdraft |
| Friday, June 19, 2026 | 18:00 | Waterworld |
| Sunday, June 21, 2026 | 18:00 | Back to the Future |
| Friday, June 26, 2026 | 17:30 | ET |
| Saturday, June 27, 2026 | 18:30 | Jurassic World |
| Sunday, June 28, 2026 | 18:30 | Minions |
Event Overview
Event Period: Limited to 10 weekend days from June 5th (Fri) to June 28th (Sun), 2026.
Event times: 17:30, 18:00, or 18:30*Varies by day
Venue: Gramercy Park, New York area (outdoor event)
Notes: *One film screened per day. Japanese dubbed versions will be screened
*Some screenings may contain graphic content; therefore, parental consent is required for children under 12 years old to experience them.
Related article: Celebrate 25 Years at Universal Studios Japan With USJ’s “Discover U!!!” Year-Long Celebration
Images provided by Universal Studios Japan
HARRY POTTER and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JK Rowling.
MINIONS TM & © 2025 Universal Studios.
© Nintendo
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© 2025 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. EJ5101001
© Walter Lantz Productions LLC
TM & © Universal Studios & Amblin Entertainment
JAWS TM & © 2025 Universal Studios
WATERWORLD TM & © 2025 Universal Studios
SING TM & © 2025 Universal Studios
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More on Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan Guidebook
Are you planning a trip to Universal Studios Japan? If so, you need our digital guidebook! Our guidebook is the most comprehensive resource available, covering everything you need to know about the park, including Super Nintendo World, Express Pass, hotels, restaurants, attractions, shows, seasonal events, and more! With our guidebook, you’ll be an expert on Universal Studios Japan before you even set foot in the park. You’ll know what to expect, where to go, and what to do. You’ll also be able to avoid the crowds and make the most of your time at the park.
Stress-Free Japan: Book with Klook
Make the most of your trip to Japan with these exclusive offerings from our trusted affiliate partner, Klook. From making bullet train reservations with ease to fully private tours, you can save time and money on your trip. I’ve used Klook since 2016, and it is my go-to booking platform for anything in Japan!
- Japan Shinkansen & Train Tickets
- JR Pass for All of Japan
- Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
- Asakusa Kimono Rental & Photo Shoot (Kimono Rental Ange)
- Mt. Fuji Private Customizable One Day Trip from Tokyo
Book Your Flight
I use Google Flights & Momodo to find affordable flights. Another great way is to sign up for Going to get notifications of cheap airfares, which happens often in Japan. You’ll sometimes stumble on cheap flights to Kansai International Airport.
Buy Your Shinkansen Tickets (Bullet Train)
Getting around Japan by the world-renowned bullet train, known as the Shinkansen, is incredibly fast, reliable, and affordable for visitors. You can travel from Tokyo to Osaka in just over 2 hours. Get the JR Rail Pass to save a ton of money on the bullet train for your trip.
Book Your Hotel
Universal Studios Japan has affordable accommodations that are steps away from the park and have easy access to Osaka. I recommend checking prices through Booking.com followed by the hotels directly. Sometimes, you’re able to score some incredible deals. Here’s a short list of hotels at Universal Studios Japan I recommend.
- The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan – You’re directly in front of the Park gates and have instant access to Universal CityWalk Osaka. The rooms are gorgeous, with restaurants and even a Lawson (Japanese convenience store).
- The Singulari HOTEL & SKYSPA – Attached to the train station is a fantastic hotel for those who want a comfortable, clean, and stylish place to sleep. After a long day at Universal Studios Japan, the rooftop sento (public bath) is excellent for unwinding and relaxing.
- Hotel Universal Port – This is an excellent hotel for the Minion fan in your family, only a 5-minute walk from Universal Studios Japan. It also boasts the largest breakfast buffet in Japan, a must during your visit.
Buy Your Tickets & Express Pass
In advance, save time and stress by buying your tickets and Express Pass for Universal Studios Japan.
Stay Connected
Universal Studios Japan only offers free Wi-Fi at the park’s entrance. That’s not enough to stay connected and share your day with everyone back home on Instagram to give them FOMO. Here’s how you can stay connected while travelling in Japan.
- Pocket Wi-Fi – If you’re travelling with a group or have multiple devices, this is your best and most affordable way to stay connected to the internet. Pick up and drop off at the airport. Easy.
- Japan SIM Card – If you have an unlocked phone and need a Japanese phone number, this is the best and easiest way.
Get Yourself Travel Insurance
While travelling aboard, having travel insurance protects you against injury, cancellations, illness, and other things you can never predict. Whenever I travel, I always budget for travel insurance to protect myself. I’ve used it, and I’m so glad I had it. My recommended companies are SafteyWing and World Nomads for travel insurance.
Learn More about Universal Studios Japan
Don’t forget to study our in-depth destination guide on Universal Studios Japan for more information on this beautiful park in Osaka.
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