Cambridge has officially kicked off the summer with a plan to bring family-friendly films under the stars. Starting July 10, 2024, the "Screen on the Green" series invites locals to snuggle up on their picnic blankets at parks around the city for free movie viewings. This summer staple, running every Wednesday evening through August 14, 2024, pairs pre-film entertainment with munchies courtesy of the Summer Food Program, all free of charge. The program, part of a Cambridge Recreation initiative, aims to quickly become a go-to family night out.
Each evening in the series is set to begin at 7:15 p.m. but not before the attendees are treated to a performance, which will certainly help to get them into the movie-going spirit. The lineup will launch with "DC League of Super Pets" on July 10 at Hoyt Field, followed by the globetrotting tale "Migration" the subsequent week at Timothy J. Toomey, Jr. Park. In the weeks to come, the roster includes "Elemental," a dip under the sea with "The Little Mermaid," the vibrant "Trolls Band Together" sequel, and the martial arts shenanigans of "Kung Fu Panda 4," according to the city's official website. Locations vary each week to cover a broad swath of Cambridge green spaces, with designated rain locations set for each screening to ensure that an unexpected shower can't put a damper on the fun.
Everyone is welcome to join in this summer's movie magic, making it an inclusive outing for Cambridge's diverse population. Alongside entertainment, the concession stand, typically a place of high markup, will serve as the ultimate budget-friendly spot with free snacks provided. "Screen on the Green Family Movie Nights are presented by Cambridge Recreation, a division of the Department of Human Service Programs," as reported on the city's announcement page.
With this series, the organizers are not only aiming to provide wholesome leisure but to strengthen community bonds. Local families can to look forward to sharing laughs and adventure as dusk settles and the projectors roll in the Cambridge summer air. If you're planning to join, you might want to get there early to snag a good spot—the films start as the sun goes down, but the memories are set to last long after the credits roll.
