Miami Beach's SoundScape Cinema Series returns Oct. 7 with a free outdoor screening of "Selena," the 1997 biopic starring Jennifer Lopez, to open its 17th season at SoundScape Park.

The film will be projected on the park's 7,000-square-foot wall with an outdoor sound system at the Frank Gehry-designed New World Center, 500 17th St. Showtime is 8 p.m. Admission is free, and no tickets or reservations are required.

The City of Miami Beach announced the season opener on its official X account Sept. 28. The screening falls during Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs Sept. 15 through Oct. 15.

Directed by Gregory Nava, "Selena" traces the career and death of Tejano music star Selena Quintanilla. Edward James Olmos co-stars.

Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner praised the series in a Sept. 10 statement to Secret Miami. "Watching a movie under the stars is a shared experience that brings our community together and makes Miami Beach such a special place to call home," Meiner said.

The city-run series screens films every Wednesday at 8 p.m., rain or shine, through May 2027. The outdoor venue holds 200 to 300 guests, so arriving early is recommended. The city encouraged attendees to bring a blanket.

Parking is available at the 17th Street Garage, 1755 Meridian Ave., for $2 per hour, or the Pennsylvania Avenue Garage, 1661 Pennsylvania Ave., for $15 event parking.

The rest of October's lineup includes "The Goonies" on Oct. 14, "Casper" on Oct. 21 and "The Addams Family" on Oct. 28.

Upcoming community events

  • Oct. 7, 8 p.m.: "Selena" screening, SoundScape Park, 500 17th St. Free.
  • Oct. 10, 6–10 p.m.: OnStage! Presents Live En La Playa, 6th Street and Ocean Drive, Lummus Park. Free.
  • Oct. 11, 5 p.m.: Miami Beach Salsa Fest, Miami Beach Bandshell, 7275 Collins Ave.
  • Oct. 14, 8 p.m.: "The Goonies" screening, SoundScape Park, 500 17th St. Free.