Movies under the stars have become a “thing” in recent years.
Not drive-in theatres, but pop-up showings in parks on inflatable screens.
Families bring snacks, lawn chairs and blankets, and stay up late to watch Disney features or action films. Sometimes there are additional attractions – food trucks, games, live music – to entertain the crowds until dusk falls.
Innisfil’s ideaLAB & Library is hosting four Fresh Air Flicks at Innisfil Beach Park this summer, the 12th year for the outdoor showings.
Recently, it was Lilo and Stitch up on the big screen. Activities began at 7 p.m., with entertainment by The Fitzees singing group, games of frisbee, crafts, an inflatable play area, and free all-natural, no-preservative chicken and pork hot dogs handed out by Maple Leaf, as a special promotion.
“It’s only our third time,” said Nina Pikula of Maple Leaf. The promotion of the low-cal (only 140 calories per dog) hot dogs began at Pride in Toronto. Maple Leaf will be back in Innisfil at least once more during the summer.
The next screening at Innisfil Beach Park will be Beauty and the Beast on July 19, weather permitting.
The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury is also hosting free outdoor movies on the grassy lawn beside the BWG Public Library and Cultural Centre at 425 Holland St. W. during the month of August.
Sponsored by Summerlyn Dental, showings are planned for Tuesdays and Thursdays, Aug. 6, 8, 20 and 22. Activities generally start at 8 p.m., with the movie showings at dusk.
On Aug. 6, families are invited to watch How to Train Your Dragon: Hidden World. Genesis Gymnastics plans to bring equipment for kids’ activities, and food vendors will include Mister Treats Ice Cream, Sweet B’s, and The Munchies Concession.
Aug. 8 – Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Activities include face-painting, food vendors.
Aug. 20 – Wall-E. Balloon twisting, food vendors.
Aug. 22 – Aladdin. Activities will begin at 7 p.m., with presentations by BWG Fire & Emergency Services, a fire truck, and Sparky the Fire Dog. Food vendors will be on hand.
