Middletown is partnering with MidPointe Library Middletown and other local groups to host its popular Movies in the Parks at parks across the City this summer.
Jeri Lewis, community projects coordinator for the City of Middletown, said the movies launched Friday with “The Goonies,” which was their most-requested movie to show.
Movies will start at dusk. and starting at 7 p.m. on each movie night, there will be food available for purchase from food trucks and a movie-themed, family-friendly activity.
“This is the first year we’ve added food trucks, and the reason we did that is because we found that families came and they wanted dinner. So, we wanted to provide that opportunity for families,” Lewis said.
There will also be family friendly activities before movies are viewed.
Movies in the Parks will be every other week in June and July. On June 16, “The Princess and the Frog” will be shown at Douglass Park. Guests will have an opportunity to meet with the princess from the movie. There will also be tiaras and a frog toy giveaway for the first 100 kids.
“This is the first year that we’ve done Movies in the Parks at Douglass Park, and we did it in conjunction with a Juneteenth celebration that’s going to happen the very next day, and we’re showing ‘Princess and the Frog.’ So, we are excited to add Douglass Park this year,” Lewis said.
On June 30, “Top Gun Maverick” will be shown at Smith Park. In addition, Butler County War Birds will be on site in uniform for photo opportunities. There will also be an airplane making station and a contest with prizes for families to enter.
Disney/Pixar’s “Soul” will be the featured film on Fri., July 14. Local musicians including Chuck Evans will also be on hand to let kids explore music through instruments. There will also be an activity for guests to enjoy.
On July 28, “Sonic the Hedgehog 2″ will be shown at Sunset Park. Guests can also participate in a water obstacle course with water balloons and other fun activities prior to the movie.
Movies in the Parks started eight years ago. The screens have been upgraded to a 30-ft. or 55-ft. screen, depending on where the movie is shown. Activies will be offered starting at 7 p.m. and will be available until the movie starts. All of the parks are centrally located. The movie nights have drawn up to 300 to 400 guests.
“We have families that started this with us eight years ago, and they make this part of their summer. They plan their family vacations around our event schedule, between parades, Movies in the Parks, and now, the Middletown Food Truck Park, too,” Lewis said.
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