THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Catch The Nightmare Before Christmas on Catalina Island at The Avalon Theatre — a cozy, accessible single-screen house steps from the waterfront. Perfect for ferry arrivals and a low-effort island evening.
Catch The Nightmare Before Christmas on Catalina Island at The Avalon Theatre — a cozy, accessible single-screen house steps from the waterfront. Perfect for ferry arrivals and a low-effort island evening.
Book with The Avalon Theatre
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by The Avalon Theatre · Avalon, California
The Avalon Theatre screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) offers a chance to see Jack Skellington's strange, seasonal journey the way it was meant to be experienced: on a big screen in the heart of Avalon, on Catalina Island. The film runs 1 hour 16 minutes and plays in a historic single-screen house at The Avalon Theatre - 1 Casino Way, Avalon CA, where the mahogany lobby and classic marquee set the tone for an evening that bridges cinema and island nightlife. Timeless stop-motion animation brings Halloween Town, Christmas Town, and their eccentric residents into sharp, spooky focus. Touchstone Pictures released this 1993 favorite, and the theatre's projection and assistive listening options make the dialogue and Danny Elfman's score land with the depth fans expect. The screening is rated PG and includes one admission per ticket; photography and outside food are restricted to protect the experience. What makes this screening special for visitors is the combination of place and program: Avalon's compact waterfront means you can ferry in during the afternoon, stroll the Casino building and promenade, and slide into a cushioned seat before sunset. The theatre anchors Avalon's cultural calendar and provides a rain-or-shine activity after hiking the island's rugged singletrack or snorkeling off the shore. Wheelchair accessibility and assistive listening devices broaden access, and local resident pricing keeps the outing community-focused. Practical details matter: run time, age policies, and the theatre's no-refund policy are all part of planning. Adult chaperones for under-18s must be 21 and remain seated; photography is prohibited during the feature. Tickets range from general admission to discounted resident rates, and the house enforces quiet etiquette so that younger viewers can enjoy the movie. For travelers who love to layer movement with culture, this showing is a compact, walkable evening that complements Catalina's outdoor offerings. Pair your ticket with a pre-show walk along Crescent Avenue, a late ferry arrival, or a dessert at a nearby cafe after the credits roll. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Avalon or a returning island regular, the theatre's programmed screenings offer a social, low-effort night that still rewards attention to detail and senses tuned to atmosphere. This is not just a film showing; it's a small-town cinema ritual on an island where the shore, skyline, and screen meet. Book in advance, arrive early, and let the island's air and the film's clever, peculiar story do the rest. Concessions are often limited at this venue, so consider dining on Avalon's main street before the show; the theatre enforces a strict no-outside-food policy during screenings. If you require mobility assistance, contact the venue ahead to confirm seating and device availability; check ferry schedules and seasonal service when planning late returns.
The meeting point is The Avalon Theatre - 1 Casino Way, Avalon CA; arrive at the theatre for check-in and seating.
No; photography and videography are strictly prohibited during the feature presentation to protect the audience experience.
Yes; the theatre is wheelchair accessible and offers assistive listening devices—contact the venue ahead to confirm arrangements.
The venue's policy is No Refunds or Exchanges; verify dates and times before booking to avoid conflicts.
Under 18 are not admitted without an adult chaperone. Chaperones must be at least 21, provide photo ID, and accompany up to five minors.
No; outside food or beverages are not allowed inside the theatre. Concessions may be limited, so plan dining before the show.
The Avalon Theatre is a historic movie palace located in Avalon, California on Santa Catalina Island. The theatre programs classic and contemporary film screenings, special events, live scores, and expert discussions that celebrate cinema and local history. Housed in the Avalon Casino complex, the venue hosts curated showings such as 3D screenings of Universal Monsters, centennial presentations of The Phantom of the Opera, modern blockbusters like Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and community-oriented documentary screenings. The Avalon Theatre presents unique cinematic experiences with attention to film history and presentation quality. Guests can attend screenings that include rare archival footage and live musical accompaniment; the Phantom of the Opera event features live music from Michael Mortilla and commentary from Academy executive Randy Haberkamp. The 3D Screening includes a world premiere score, rare 3-D photos, and expert discussions. Other programmed titles have included Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Hollywood's Magical Island, and Frankenstein, demonstrating a range from genre classics to local history. Located in downtown Avalon, the theatre is accessible to visitors arriving by ferry or private boat and serves island residents and tourists. Programming emphasizes preservation, education, and entertainment, partnering with historians, musicians, and film professionals when possible. The Avalon Theatre maintains a reputation as a cultural hub on Catalina Island, offering memorable film events in a historic setting. Visitors should check event listings and ticketing information for specific screening dates, times, and special presentations. Concessions, local exhibits, and accessible seating improve visitor experience during screenings.
Book with The Avalon Theatre