A Little Practical Magic Under the Stars: Stonington Vineyards Hosts an Adults-Only Halloween Movie Night

At a Glance

What: Outdoor screening of Practical Magic (1998) with wine and popcorn
When: Friday, October 23, 2026, 5:30–8 p.m.
Movie Starts: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Stonington Vineyards, Stonington, CT
Admission: $22 in advance; $25 at the door
Age Restriction: 21 and older
Included: One glass of wine, movie admission, and popcorn
Food: South County BBQ available on-site for purchase
What to Bring: Lawn chairs, blankets, warm clothing, and an optional picnic
Advance Ticket Deadline: Thursday, October 22, at 3 p.m.
Refund Policy: Tickets are nonrefundable

Event Description

Movie Night at the Vineyard brings a little Hollywood witchcraft to Stonington Vineyards on Friday, October 23, with an outdoor screening of the 1998 romantic fantasy Practical Magic, starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman. The adults-only evening combines a cult-favorite Halloween movie with wine, popcorn, and an autumn sunset over the vineyard.

The event begins at 5:30 p.m., giving guests time to settle onto the lawn, enjoy a glass of wine, and find a comfortable spot before the film begins at 6:30 p.m.

Admission includes the movie, a glass of wine, and popcorn. Guests can also purchase food from South County BBQ, which will be serving on-site.

Two Sisters, One Family Curse, and a Little Witchcraft

Released in 1998, Practical Magic follows sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, played by Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, who come from a family of witches living under a generations-old curse.

Raised by their eccentric aunts in a picturesque New England town, the sisters grow up surrounded by spells, superstitions, and a family history that makes falling in love particularly dangerous.

Sally longs for an ordinary life, while Gillian embraces adventure and romance. But when trouble brings the sisters back together, they must confront the consequences of their family’s magical inheritance.

Directed by Griffin Dunne, the film also stars Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest as the Owens sisters’ aunts.

Although Practical Magic received mixed reviews upon its original release, it developed a devoted following, particularly among audiences drawn to its combination of romance, sisterhood, supernatural mischief, and autumn atmosphere.

The movie’s New England setting, Victorian house, and distinctive soundtrack have helped make it a seasonal favorite.

With renewed interest in the story surrounding the newer Practical Magic film, the original offers a timely excuse to revisit the Owens sisters.

A Halloween Movie With a Vineyard Twist

Watching Practical Magic outdoors adds another layer of atmosphere to a film already closely associated with autumn.

Instead of settling onto the couch at home, guests can enjoy the movie beneath the evening sky, surrounded by the vineyard’s landscape.

Stonington Vineyards is known for its Connecticut-grown wines and picturesque grounds, making it a popular destination for tastings, seasonal gatherings, and special events.

The screening takes place on the lawn, where guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets.

Sunset is expected around 5:45 p.m., shortly before the film begins, so the evening will transition from late-afternoon light into an outdoor movie experience after dark.

Wine, Popcorn, and Barbecue

Every ticket includes a glass of wine and popcorn, two essentials for this particular version of movie night.

South County BBQ will also be on-site serving food for purchase, giving guests the option of enjoying dinner before or during the screening.

Visitors may bring a picnic, although they should check the vineyard’s policies regarding outside beverages.

With October evenings growing cooler, warm layers and blankets are strongly recommended. Even a pleasant afternoon can turn chilly once the sun goes down.

An Adults-Only Evening at Stonington Vineyards

The event is restricted to guests ages 21 and older.

Advance tickets cost $22, increasing to $25 at the door. Advance sales close Thursday, October 22, at 3 p.m.

Tickets are nonrefundable, and no physical tickets will be mailed. Reservations will be held on a guest list at the entrance.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Practical Magic or simply looking for a different way to celebrate Halloween, the evening offers a combination of classic movie nostalgia, autumn scenery, and a glass of Connecticut wine.

To purchase tickets, click the Event Ticketing link below.

Featured image is an artistic representation inspired by the event and may not depict the actual people, location, or activities shown