Seeing a movie in theaters doesn’t always have to be expensive—especially if you go on the right day. Theater chains and local cinemas across the Northeast regularly offer discount days that make it easier to catch a film without the high ticket prices. Whether you’re a student, a family, or just a budget-savvy moviegoer, knowing when to buy tickets can make all the difference.
Here’s a breakdown of the best days to see a movie for less—and how to make the most of those deals.
Tuesdays Are the Gold Standard for Movie Discounts
Many of the nation’s biggest theater chains offer special Tuesday pricing. The catch? You often need to be part of their loyalty program—but it’s usually free to join.
Matinee Showings: Weekdays Before 4 p.m.
If you have a flexible schedule, opt for matinee screenings. These earlier showtimes are typically discounted—even on weekends—compared to evening prices. Most chains automatically lower ticket prices for shows before 4 p.m.
- Cinemark Matinees: Discounted tickets before 4 p.m. daily.
- AMC Matinees: Varies by location, but most offer reduced pricing for early shows.
Senior and Student Discount Days
Some theaters dedicate a specific day each week to senior or student pricing. Even if no formal “day” is advertised, many theaters still offer year-round discounted rates with a valid ID. Check with your local theater directly.
Local Theaters and Independent Cinemas
Smaller and nonprofit theaters often run value nights, sometimes on days when major chains don’t. Examples include:
- Coolidge Corner Theatre in Brookline, MA
- The Brattle Theatre in Cambridge, MA
- Jacob Burns Film Center in Pleasantville, NY
These venues frequently offer discounted admission on off-peak days, memberships with ticket savings, or themed discount nights (like classic film Mondays or member-only Wednesdays).
How to Stack More Savings on Discount Days
Even on discount days, you can bring your total even lower by using digital gift cards from cashback platforms like Fluz. For example, you can:
- Buy a Regal gift card with cashback to pay for a Value Day ticket
- Get cashback at AMC Theatres while still using your Stubs discount
- Earn rewards with a Cinemark gift card on top of Tuesday pricing
Because you can purchase gift cards for the exact amount you need, there’s no waste—and you’ll get a percentage back instantly.
Bottom Line: Timing Is Everything
If you’re looking to see more movies for less, plan your showtimes strategically:
- Tuesdays are usually the cheapest for most major chains
- Matinees offer solid savings throughout the week
- Weekday evenings at local indie theaters can be surprisingly affordable
- Combine discount pricing with cashback gift cards to maximize value
