Peoria is sweetening the family entertainment pot with a bit of chocolate and whimsy. The Peoria Sports Complex is rolling out the red carpet for a family movie night with a screening of "Wonka," the Complex's latest bid to draw families for an evening of communal fun under the stars. The show is set for Friday, May 3, from 5 to 9 p.m., with gates opening at 5 and the flick starting at a kid-friendly 7 p.m., according to the official Peoria city website.
Before the confectionary tales of Willy Wonka unfold on screen, kiddos will have their fill of pre-movie excitement. Bounce houses, the Peoria Cove playground, and the inevitable splash pad will surely tire out the tikes before they settle down with their popcorn. The city promises a slew of goodies will be up for grabs during a pre-movie trivia session, a cherry on top of a sweet deal, it's free—no price for admission, no price for parking. However, hold the soda, because no soft drinks, sports drinks, or outside alcohol is allowed to sully the sugar rush.
Family flick addicts might want to take note of the Complex's 'clear bags only' rule, a sign of our security-obsessed times. Parents schlepping diaper bags or toting required medical supplies will need to submit to a search. But fear not, the city says you can fill your cooler with bottled water, juice boxes, and baby formula, just enough to keep the cries at bay and hydration at optimum levels. Other beverages can be bought on-site for those who missed the memo or prefer convenience over savings.
In an era where “BYO” is routinely attached to invitations, guests can bring their celebratory enthusiasm, personal snack food items—and strategy for comfortable viewing. Lawn chairs and blankets are given the thumbs up, while oversized umbrellas, canopies, tents and the like are a firm no-go. The family dog will have to stay home unless it's a certified service animal. So, if you're eager to indulge in some nostalgia, mark your calendar, stake out your plot of lawn early, and don't forget to bring that see-through tote.
For more details on this golden ticket event, rules, and directions, chocolate chasers and film buffs can go to the city website for the full rundown on everything, but the secret recipe.
