The program launched in 2007 as a ‘take back our parks’ initiative – in sync with the County’s Live Well vision to sustain safe, healthy and thriving communities. Each movie event gives residents a reason to visit their local parks after dark, deterring inappropriate loitering and park use, and bringing additional safety and security to residents’ favorite locales. Shows run May through October, in neighborhoods from the beach to the desert, and everything in between. 

Events begin as early as 6 p.m., though actual start times are 15 minutes after sunset, which vary by date. Before the movie, many locations provide additional entertainment like arts and crafts, games, costume contests, music, dancing and food trucks. 

New in 2020 was the addition of Virtual Summer Movies in the Park. This was a creative response to pandemically induced safety limitations in parks. In lieu of hosting live movies, we offered a collection of online showings that participants could register for, with a link to watch the movie sent the day before (good for 24 hours). We also tested drive-in movies at some of our most popular locations with good response. 

In 2023, we're back to our traditional movie format, and we look forward to entertaining you via a giant inflatable screen - on a lawn and in a park near you! 

Learn more:

1. Summer Movies in the Park website
2. Summer Movies in the Park Facebook page
3. Full list of Movies

Call for sponsors:

Consider sponsoring the full series, or specific events at your favorite park destination. Options start at $250 and include a wealth of perks – both online and live, at movie showings. Get additional information in our Summer Movies in the Park Sponsor Packet or by connecting with Program Chair Christine Lafontant at 619-531-4954 or christine.lafontant@sdcounty.ca.gov.