"Movies in the Park" dates set for third season

Movies in the Park, which has become a summertime staple since its beginning in 2013, has released event dates for the 2015 season.

Last year, attendance for the event reached a new high with more than 5,000 people present at the finale double-feature of Sandlot and Jurassic Park. Presenting Partners, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) and Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, expect continued growth for this year’s series and are providing the opportunity for attendees to plan their summer around the events. The 2015 Movies in the Park event dates will occur at dusk on two Friday nights each month of the summer.

Launched in 2013, the Movies in the Park event grew out of community conversations about what people wanted to see in the Downtown. Held at Ah-Nab-Awen Park against the backdrop of the downtown skyline, moviegoers bring a blanket, food, beer or wine to enjoy free pre-movie activities and a film projected in high definition onto a 50 foot screen. The event has grown each year with more attendees and more community participation. The 2014 Event Impact Report is available on the DGRI website.

“When we announced the Movies in the Park line-up last year, we heard many positive stories from people who were excited to watch a classic movie under the stars,” explains Kristopher Larson, President and CEO of DGRI. “This year, we’re happy to contribute to the anticipation for the summer months.”

The lineup of movies to be shown in 2015 will not be announced until spring. Last year, DGRI and Friends of Grand Rapids Parks released a teaser video to share the season schedule. This year, audiences can expect another interactive way to learn about the series lineup and vote for a “Viewers’ Choice” film to close out the summer series.

"Movies in the Park is an amazing collaboration that helps activate Ah-Nab-Awen Park in a new way. We love seeing people enjoying a summer evening with their family and friends, and creating a unique, shared experience with their community," says Steve Faber, Executive Director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks.

Currently, DGRI and Friends of Grand Rapids Parks are accepting sponsors, community partners and volunteers for the 2015 season. Series and Title Sponsors receive the opportunity to promote their business at the event, get reserved seating and share in the promotions throughout the summer. Nonprofit organizations are also able to partner through programming and volunteer staffing each night. If businesses or nonprofits are interested in becoming a sponsor or partner, they can email DGRI for more information.