D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation brings residents free fun with weekly Thursday movie nights
The District's Department of Parks and Recreation is hosting weekly outdoor movie nights at Yards Park, providing free entertainment and activities for residents of all ages to enjoy throughout the summer. The post D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation brings residents free fun with weekly Thursday movie nights appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.
Black News 
By Morgan Carpenter
AFRO Intern
mcarpenter@afro.com
Laughter echoed throughout Ward 8’s Yard Park on June 25 as the smell of popcorn wafted through the warm air. Members of the community enjoyed the free snack along with a screening of “Bad Guys 2.”
Residents of all ages across Washington, D.C., can spend Thursday evenings under the stars this summer as the District’s Department of Parks and Recreation hosts weekly outdoor movie nights designed to bring residents together through free entertainment and community activities.
The weekly gatherings are part of the department’s ongoing effort to provide free recreational programming throughout the summer while encouraging residents to explore local green spaces.
“Parks are a big part of it, and we recognize that one thing we can do is activate the park space,” said Thennie Freeman, director of the District’s Department of Parks and Recreation.
The series welcomes residents of all ages to Yards Park for screenings of popular films, including the recently released biopic “Michael.” Before each movie begins, attendees can participate in activities inspired by that week’s featured film. From creating superhero capes to making slime and singing karaoke, organizers hope the events offer more than just a movie by creating opportunities for families, friends and neighbors to connect.
“It’s always something to accompany the movie,” Freeman said, when asked how the activities are selected.
One of the department’s primary goals is to create safe, engaging opportunities for teenagers during the summer months.
“This is their city, and we don’t want them to not participate in their city. We just want them to participate in activities in their city safely,” Freeman said.
Teen attendee Gracie Lathers said the program gives young people positive opportunities to gather.
“This is giving us places to go,” Lathers said.
Another teen attendee added, “Leave the drama at home — just vibe.”
Freeman said the department has seen strong community interest in the movie nights. In the past, attendance grew over the summer with each session.
“We don’t do RSVP required. Later in the summer, finding a seat is going to be nearly impossible,” Freeman said. “They get extremely popular.”
The department has hosted several other free community events, including public watch parties for international soccer tournaments and NFL playoff games.
“We’ve done the World Cup…and watched the Commanders in the playoffs,” Freeman said.
From July 9 to Aug. 20, attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy a summer evening outdoors with a movie and members of the community. The events are free and open to residents and visitors, making the series an accessible entertainment option for families, teens and young adults looking for affordable summer activities.
Residents can check the Department of Parks and Recreation’s website and social media pages for weekly movie schedules, locations, activity information and weather-related updates.
The post D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation brings residents free fun with weekly Thursday movie nights appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.
