It’s easy to assume teens are glued to their phones, streaming everything at home, but catching a movie on the big screen is still something they make time for.

A recent study of 202 teens, ages 13 to 19, reveals they’re not going every week, but when the movie, moment, and mood align, teens are happy to trade their couch or bed for reclining seats, giant screens, and, of course, snacks.

It’s not just about the movie—it’s about the experience. Nearly half of teens say snacks (47%), the big screen (45%), and being with friends or family (45%) are what make theaters fun. The movie itself? Just one part of why it feels special.

Most teens would go with others—70% with family, 65% with friends—while just 28% say they’d go solo. For females, especially, movies are a shared experience, often tied to the fun of a night out, enjoying snacks, and not having to foot the bill.

The majority of teens aren’t at the theater every week, though a die-hard 5% are. Most go more than just a few times a year: 24% go once every few months, 23% go a few times a month, and 14% go once a month. Only 7% never go to the cinema at all.

If they’re going, it’s probably at night. Sixty-seven percent prefer evening shows over daytime matinees. While half are open to weekday or weekend trips, weekends are more popular.

Special releases and school breaks give them extra reason to go. Around half are likely to show up for midnight premieres, opening days, or holiday screenings. Big sequels like Avatar 3: Fire and Ash or live-action remakes of favorite animated films are the kinds of can’t-miss events that get teens excited about the big screen. “I can't wait for the Lilo & Stitch live-action,” said a 17-year-old female from Ohio.

Cost is a big factor. Forty-two percent say theaters are too expensive, and 53% are more likely to go if someone else pays. About 41% usually cover their own ticket.

Teens are willing to pay more for snacks (41%), 3D movies (36%), or a comfy seat (33%), but few are interested in spending extra on IMAX, reserved seating, or full-service dining.

While 30% prefer watching at home and 63% enjoy both, the theater still offers a lot they can’t get from streaming—the energy of being with others, the indulgence of buttered popcorn, and the thrill of the big screen. Across demographics, most teens feel the same: they’ll show up when it’s worth it—keeping moviegoing magic alive, one night out at a time. And that’s a wrap!