Glenelg got a little bit cooler last night as the temporary Ben and Jerry’s Openair Cinema launched with its first Sundae Session. Considering this was one of our fave places to hang out last Summer, we jumped at the chance to check out this year’s set up…
There are a few main factors that set the Sundae Sessions apart from other evenings spent at the Openair Cinema, starting with the music. Get serenaded by some of Adelaide’s finest while sipping on a wine from Giesen, beer from the cheeky folks at Four Pines Brewery, cider (or cider punch) from Rekorderlig or a fancy spritzer from Aperol. We enjoyed the aural bliss of Paige Renee Court and Christian Andrew.
What we also enjoyed, and most definitely the highlight of the Sundae Sessions, is the FREE sample of divine Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. Droooooool. Now, don’t be mistaken, this ain’t no one teaspoon sized “sample”. We’re talking 2-3 full, delicious, creamy scoops of the good stuff. At no charge. This week’s offerings were Cookie Dough or Phish Food. Don’t be put off by the name of the latter, it’s chocolatey marshmallow-y heaven.
Then, if you’re just too excited to sit still while you wait for the silver screen magic to start they’ve brought along a range of brilliant games you and your clan can play. This is generally made even more hilarious after you’ve enjoyed the offerings at the bar first. Public Service Announcement: playing giant Jenga after indulging in a few Aperol cocktails will result in wailing, screaming and your inevitable loss at the game.
After all the fun and excitement and a spectacular sunset, you can settle in for the screening. We got to watch Star Wars Episode: VII. We don’t want to give too much away on that front so we’ll summarise as best we can: In a galaxy far far away… Boom! Explosion. Desert. Spaceship. Orange R2D2 baby is super cute. Indiana Jones is in space. Someone is someone’s child. Lots of space masks. Boom! Explosion. Dramatic music. Princess Leia is no longer a Princess. Shocking revelations. Shhhhhhhhhum shhhhum light sabers. Cliff hanger.
Annnnnd that’s about it. Well, actually there’s lots more and it’s way too awesome to spoil it all for you. So just go see it!
If there are any hot tips for your trip to this excellent event it would be: no matter how hot the day has been, when that sun goes down you will be cold. You’ll feel like you’re naked in Antarctica without a jumper, pants and a blanket. Luckily the brilliant folks at Ben and Jerry have blankets to hire for a cool $4. You won’t regret that purchase. Trust us.
We’ll definitely be back to the Openair Cinema before the end of its season. It’s the perfect date night, a great way to keep the family entertained or a fun night out with friends.
Ben and Jerry’s Openair Cinema
When: Runs until Sunday 10 April
Where: Brian Nadilo Reserve, Glenelg Foreshore (in front of the Glenelg Surf Club)