This Friday, Reid Park’s tranquil Demeester Performing Arts Pavilion will be transformed into a cinematic experience that is free for the entire family.

Cox Movies in the Park is an annual tradition sponsored by Cox Communications and the Southern Arizona Arts and Culture Alliance that began in 2003. Starting at dusk, a 40-foot screen will illuminate the grassy paradise with a rotating selection of family-friendly films.

“I’m really excited to sit under the stars and enjoy a relaxing movie,” said Nicole Bui, a biosystems engineering junior.
Not all of the excitement begins when the sun goes down though. Starting at 5:30 p.m., a variety of fun activities will be available for the attendees of the event. Face painting, jumping castles and arts and crafts will be available for the child in everyone before the movie starts.

Dinner is not a prerequisite for this event because a diverse collection of food trucks and vendors will be selling their savory wares. One can choose from classic Tucson cuisine, like a Sonoran hotdog from Mi Familia Fry Breads and Sonoran Dogs, or vegetarian options, like dishes from Gaia’s Gallery Vegetarian Cuisine. Those with a sweet tooth will be satisfied because shaved ice and sweets will be available from Kona Ice and Pin-Up Pastries.

It wouldn’t be a movie night without popcorn, and luckily, Cowboy
Kettle Corn is serving fresh-popped kettle corn.
This week’s movie will be “How to Train Your Dragon” and the event is a great way to enjoy the Tucson night while having fun with friends and family.

Cox Movies in the Park will continue into the month of August with three more movies. Make sure to bring a blanket and some chairs, as there will be no seating at the event. Additional parking for the event can be found at Hi Corbett Field.