Movie Theaters Are Having A Blockbuster Year

Movie theaters are enjoying a strong 2026, with visits to AMC, Cinemark and Regal increasing between 11.7% and 17.5% year over year from January through August. Major releases are creating particularly large traffic spikes: Spider-Man: Brand New Day drove visits 305.5% above the 2026 daily average, while August traffic across the three chains jumped between 51.6% and 69.9% compared with last year. The variety of films generating traffic also suggests moviegoing momentum extends beyond a single franchise or genre.

Growing theater traffic creates opportunities for businesses that can capitalize on consumers already being out and looking for entertainment. Sellers can approach movie theaters, restaurants, bars, shopping centers, entertainment venues, family attractions and nearby retailers with campaigns tied to major releases, date nights, family outings and promotions that encourage consumers to combine a movie with dining, shopping or other activities.