Movies in the Park returns to Hudson County with free summer screenings

Imagine this: a warm summer evening, the smell of fresh popcorn, a blanket spread on the grass, and your kids giggling as the sun sets and the screen lights up. That’s the scene County Executive Craig Guy and the Board of Chosen County Commissioners are inviting you to, with the return of the annual Movies in the Park series.

It’s been running for over a decade, and this year’s lineup is packed with family favorites. Best of all, it’s completely free for Hudson County residents. Free admission, free popcorn, free refreshments. Just show up.

What’s happening

The schedule runs through late August, with screenings in eight parks across the county. Each movie starts at sunset. If rain forces a cancellation, there’s a makeup date listed for each show.

Here’s the remaining lineup:

• July 22: Coco at Washington Park (rainout: July 29)
• July 23: Zootopia at James J Braddock Park (rainout: July 27)
• July 23: Tangled at Columbus Park (rainout: August 3)
• July 30: Wicked for Good at Lincoln Park (rainout: August 5)
• August 4: Beauty and the Beast (live action) at Stephen R Gregg Park (rainout: August 10)
• August 6: Big Hero 6 at Laurel Hill Park (rainout: August 12)
• August 11: Monsters, Inc. at Mercer Park (rainout: August 17)
• August 13: Encanto at West Hudson Park (rainout: August 18)
• August 19: Soul at Washington Park (rainout: August 26)
• August 20: Raya: The Last Dragon at James J Braddock Park (rainout: August 24)
• August 25: Finding Nemo at Columbus Park (rainout: August 27)

The background

The Movies in the Park program started as a small community initiative more than a decade ago. It was designed to give families a free, low-pressure way to enjoy summer nights together. Over the years, it has grown into a beloved tradition that draws hundreds of people each week.

County officials see it as more than just entertainment. It’s about building community. Neighbors who might only wave at each other in passing end up sharing popcorn and laughing at the same jokes. Kids from different schools find common ground over talking animals and magical adventures.

What it means for Hudson County

For families here, summer can be expensive. Day camps, trips to the shore, amusement parks — it all adds up. Movies in the Park gives you a night out that costs nothing. You bring your blanket, maybe some extra snacks, and you’re set.

For working parents who are always stretched thin, these evenings offer something precious: time to just be together. No schedules, no screens (except the big one), no rush. Just the sky going dark, the stars coming out, and a story that everyone can enjoy.

It’s also a great way to discover parts of the county you might not visit otherwise. Maybe you’ve never been to Laurel Hill Park or Mercer Park. Now you have a reason to go, and you’ll find neighbors who are happy to see you.

What people are saying

County Executive Craig Guy called the series a way to bring families, friends, and neighbors together. The Board of Chosen County Commissioners has supported it year after year, and the free popcorn and refreshments — a small touch — make it feel like a real event.

Residents seem to agree. On social media, parents have called it a highlight of their summer. One mom from Jersey City posted last year: “My kids talked about it for weeks. We’re already marking our calendars.”

What comes next

There’s still plenty of summer left. Mark your calendar for the movies you want to see, and if rain threatens, check the makeup dates. No registration is needed. Just show up at the park a little before sunset, find a good spot, and settle in.

The county’s website and social media pages will have the latest updates on any weather-related changes. You can also call the parks department if you’re unsure.

So grab that blanket, pack some bug spray, and head to a park near you. The night is warm, the popcorn is free, and your neighbors are waiting.