Publish Date
Movies in the Parks Kicks Off July 13.
Movies in the Parks Kicks Off July 13.
Photo: Chicago Park District

Outdoor Screenings Run July 13- Sept 11

The Chicago Park District’s 20th annual Movies in the Parks series kicks off Monday, July 13 and will feature 45 free, outdoor screenings of current and classic movies in parks citywide, every weekday through September 11.  The neighborhood-based series is part of the Chicago Park District’s Night Out in the Parks event initiative, which is celebrating its 8th year this summer. This year’s outdoor movie series is supported by Xfinity and ComEd. 

“Chicago Park District’s Movies in the Parks outdoor series, a staple of summer in Chicago, returns to neighborhood parks across the city” said Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO Michael Kelly. “We are excited to share plans to resume free movie screenings this summer and provide guidance on how park visitors can enjoy outdoor entertainment safely.”

Chicago moved into phase four of its “Protecting Chicago” reopening framework along with the rest of Illinois on Friday, June 26. Phase four – ‘Gradually Resume’ – requires all residents to abide by important guidance, including: physically distancing and wearing a face covering; limiting non-business, social gatherings to a maximum of 100 fewer persons; staying at home if you feel ill or have come into contact with someone with COVID-19; and getting tested if you have symptoms.

In accordance with public health official guidelines for safe and healthy interactions in outdoor spaces and attractions, capacity in the Movies in the Parks viewing area is limited to no more than 100 individuals if the group largely remains static (e.g., sitting) and practices social distancing. Admission will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees may enter and exit at designated points. Patrons should follow directional signage to ensure one-way foot traffic within the viewing area. Park fieldhouses and restrooms will not be available during Movies in the Parks screenings. Hand sanitizer will be provided to the public when entering and exiting the viewing area. Movies in the Parks staff will clean and sanitize high touch equipment surfaces at the beginning and end of every shift. 

Click here for the Movies in the Parks 2020 schedule.  Admission is free, and all movies begin at dusk, weather permitting. Out of an abundance of caution, popcorn will not be provided to attendees. Movies will be suspended in case of rain. Patrons can call the Movies in the Parks hotline for daily listings and updated weather-related cancellations at 312-742-1134.

For regular updates, stay connected to the Chicago Park District: Movies in the Parks Facebook page.

For more information about the City’s “Protecting Chicago” reopening framework, and to find industry-specific guidelines, please visit chicago.gov/reopening

# # #