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ROCHESTER — Families can once again enjoy the magic of the big screen under the stars this summer.
The Rochester Downtown Development Authority’s 21st annual Movies in the Moonlight series will kick off July 16 with “Cruella,” rated PG-13, sponsored by The Linda Rea Team.
“We have a nice movie schedule this year,” said Downtown Development Authority Events Coordinator Jenna O’Dell.
Other featured movies include the PG-13-rated film “Mamma Mia!” sponsored by Genisys Credit Union on July 23; the PG-13-rated film “Jungle Cruise” sponsored by Bright Loritos on July 30; and the PG film “Encanto” sponsored by Lake Michigan Credit Union on Aug. 6. Movies rated PG-13 are edited versions whenever possible; however, parental guidance is still recommended.
“As a local credit union, it’s really important that we are involved in some of the activities and events that our members and the overall community are involved in, as well,” said Traci Harris of Lake Michigan Credit Union. “It’s just a great event for families to enjoy — it’s completely free, the movies they select are great selections and it’s a really nice time to come to downtown Rochester with your family.”
Movies will be projected onto a large screen near the parking lot at the corner of East Third and Water, one block east of Main, each Saturday night through Aug. 6.
Before each movie, starting at 8:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy a different pre-show activity — which will incorporate the theme of the film each week — including activities with The Linda Rea Team July 16, a dance performance by VIBE Dance Academy July 23, a visit with the exotic animals from The Little Creature Co. July 30 and an “Encanto” singalong Aug. 6.
“It’s a fun, free activity to do with your family,” O’Dell explained.
The films begin at dusk, around 9:15 p.m., and will be shown in light rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, organizers will make the call whether to cancel a movie just before the event and will relay the message on the DDA’s “Downtown Dish” texting service. Simply text the keyword “join” to (866) 603-4005 to sign up for information about upcoming events, promotions and other alerts.
“We really try to hold off as long as possible before canceling the movie. If the weather forecast does become severe, we would have to cancel,” O’Dell said.
Organizers say anywhere from 500 to 1,000 people typically attend each movie, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early and to bring their own chairs or blankets to sit on. Moviegoers are also allowed to bring their own snacks — alcohol and glass containers are not allowed — or they can purchase food there.
“The Little Donut Factory is running our concessions this year at all the movies, so you can grab some doughnuts and popcorn and have a fun, free night with the fam,” O’Dell said,
Downtown Rochester’s Movies in the Moonlight is presented by Bright Loritos, The Linda Rea Team, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Genisys Credit Union, Detroit Tarot Co., Envoy Mortgage, The Funky Frog, Lambert Law, Oakland Animal Hospital, O’Connor’s Public House, Rainbow Connection, Rochester Laser Center, Rochester Mills Beer Co. and Tondue Medical Spa.
For more information, visit www.downtownrochestermi.com or call (248) 656-0060.
