Movies in the Park brings Madera families together under the stars

Blankets, folding chairs and families have filled the grassy amphitheater at Lions Town and Country Park as Madera’s Movies in the Park series continues its summer run.

Since returning July 10, the free Friday-night program has welcomed hundreds of residents for outdoor screenings of “Zootopia 2” and the live-action remake of “Lilo & Stitch.” The series continues this Friday, July 24, with the Disney and Pixar family film “Hoppers.”

Presented by the City of Madera Parks and Community Services Department, Movies in the Park has become a popular summer tradition, giving families a place to gather, enjoy a movie and spend an evening together without the cost of admission.

“People begin asking us about Movies in the Park well before summer arrives, and that tells you how much the community enjoys this program,” Parks and Community Services Director Joe Hebert said. “It is a simple experience, but a meaningful one. Families bring a blanket, find a place on the grass and spend the evening together. Those are the moments children remember, and we are glad the City can help create them.”

The appeal extends beyond the movie itself. Children have room to enjoy the park before the film, parents can visit with friends and neighbors, and families can share an affordable night out close to home.

PG&E is serving as a primary sponsor of this year’s series, helping the City continue offering the weekly events to the community at no charge. Representatives with PG&E say they are proud to support Movies in the Park and other local events that create opportunities for families and neighbors to spend time together in the communities the company serves.

Movies will continue every Friday evening at the Lions Town and Country Park Amphitheater through Aug. 28. The eight-week series will conclude with a screening of “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.”

Films begin at dusk, with start times generally ranging from approximately 7:30 to 9 p.m. as sunset times change throughout the summer. Admission is free, and snacks are available for purchase from cash-only concessions.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and bring lawn chairs, blankets, bug spray and anything else needed to remain comfortable in the amphitheater’s grassy seating area. Smoking and alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

With several screenings still ahead, organizers are preparing for another steady stream of families each Friday. For many residents, the hardest decision may be choosing the best spot on the grass before the opening credits begin.