Crowds gather to watch E.T. on an outdoor movie screen in Grimston Park at 2010's Summerfest. Photo: Harry Pehkonen.

Nothing says summer like movies al fresco, plus the price (free!) can’t be beat. There are a number of outdoor movie screenings coming up in New Westminster this summer. Here’s a list of the ones I have heard about so far. If you know of an event I’ve overlooked, please comment to let me know. All movies in this list are free. Remember to bring your own picnic blanket or lawn chair if you go.

JULY

• July 14: The Princess Bride Summerfest in Grimston Park features a free screening of The Princess Bride. Swordfights, giants, princesses, magic potions, Rodents of Unusual Size … what more could you want in a movie? Festival starts at 2pm with classic picnic games, mini-Farmers Market from 3-7, live music from 5-9 and the movie starts at 9:30.  Movie sponsored by Derrick Thornhill of Park Georgia Realty. Free popcorn provided by Community Savings Credit Union.

AUGUST

• August 17: Ghostbusters Who you gonna call? Bill Murray, of course! 8:30pm at Queen’s Park Stadium.  Cash-only concession on site. Presented by New Westminster Parks, Culture & Recreation and G&F Financial.
• August 24: The Muppets Fresh-faced Amy Adams stars in the most recent of the Muppet movies. 8:30pm at Queen’s Park Stadium.  Cash-only concession on site. Presented by New Westminster Parks, Culture & Recreation and G&F Financial.
• August 31: Big Classic ’80s comedy featuring Tom Hanks. 8:30pm at Queen’s Park Stadium.  Cash-only concession on site. Presented by New Westminster Parks, Culture & Recreation and G&F Financial.

SEPTEMBER

• September 7: Toy Story Charming animated tale from Pixar about the secret lives of toys. Features the voices of Tom Hanks and Tim Allen. 8:30pm at Queen’s Park Stadium. Cash-only concession on site. Presented by New Westminster Parks, Culture & Recreation and G&F Financial.

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