Catch an Outdoor Flick in Southeast Michigan

By: Toni Cunningham | August 6, 2014
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We’re at the point in the season where it’s time to start discussing ways in which we can enjoy the rest of the summer. All good things must end, and this glorious season is no different. While it’s still gorgeous out, enjoy soaking up every ray of sunshine you can!

Enjoying a flick with some popcorn on a blazing hot day is a great way to spend a summer day or night. But let’s be honest—this summer’s weather has been a little inconsistent, and those scorchers are few and far between. Which is perfectly okay, because it makes outdoor movies all the more enjoyable sans humidity. There are several places where you can enjoy an outdoor flick with your family, a date, or your closest friends. The best part? The ones below are all free!

New Center Park, 2990 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit, is hosting movies outdoors on Wednesday nights throughout the summer. Doors open at 8 p.m. and movies begin at 9:30 p.m. The upcoming calendar includes:

  • Wednesday, August 6: “Slumdog Millionaire”
  • Wednesday, August 13: “March of the Penguins” (note: adults dressed in black and white will be able to enjoy drink specials, and kids get free penguin shaped notebooks)
  • Wednesday, August 20: “The Breakfast Club”
  • Wednesday, August 27: “2001: A Space Odyssey”

Campus Martius Park, 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit, holds “Movie Night in the D” on Saturday nights on the North Lawn Stage. If munching on snacks during the show is a must, Faygo beverages and Good People Popcorn are available for purchase. Upcoming shows begin at 8:30 p.m. and include:

The Silverado is the truck that works as hard as you do.

  • Saturday, August 9: “Gravity”
  • Saturday, August 16: “American Hustle”

Downtown Holly Movie Nights take place at Historic Battle Alley, where refreshments and snacks are available for purchase. Each flick begins at 9 p.m. and in the event of rain, the movie will be moved to Holly’s Community Center gymnasium. Get ready to be entertained by the following animated numbers:

  • Saturday, August 9: “Despicable Me 2”
  • Saturday, August 23: “The Nut Job”

As you may have heard, the Detroit Film Theatre at the DIA is closed this summer for renovations. No need to fret, because it will open back up in October. To compensate, the DFT is hosting several outdoor screenings at various Metroparks this summer. Admission to each film is included in the daily park admission price, and the movie begins at 8:45 p.m.

The schedule is as follows:

Stony Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Dr., Shelby Township

  • Friday, August 8: “Godzilla”
  • Saturday, August 9: “A Hard Day’s Night”

Willow Metropark, 23200 S. Huron Rd., New Boston

  • Friday, August 15: “Godzilla”
  • Saturday, August 16: “A Hard Day’s Night”

Patrons are welcome to bring a blanket or chair to each of the above venues for maximum comfort. Don’t forget the bug spray!

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