Summer in the city means tons of fun under the sun (and stars). In addition to dining al fresco, folks love to take in outdoor movies. Yes, it harkens back to childhood days at the local drive-in movie. So, get ready for the return of the Topiary Park Movie Series. Or, check out some other outdoor movie fun.

First, Discovery Special Improvement District’s Topiary Park Movies kick off June 29 with an all-time great with a central Ohio connection. So, get ready to see Shawshank Redemption from start to finish (as opposed to the portion you see when you stumble across it late at night while channel surfing). This year marks the 25th anniversary of the film, which was filmed in Mansfield. Then, on July 27, check out Ready Player One, which is set in Columbus (though a Columbus you won’t recognize). Finally, on August 24, may the odds be ever in your favor when you watch The Hunger Games. Thankfully, you won’t find a Columbus connection there, but you’ll be super entertained.

So, mark your calendars and bring a blanket and some movie snacks for a great night out. And, don’t forget to nab some free popcorn courtesy of sponsor Randy Walker of Commercial One Real Estate. Also, thanks go out to community partners, Motorists Insurance Group, Friends of Topiary Park, Discovery District Civic Association, State Auto Insurance Companies, and Columbus Metropolitan Library.

Other Outdoor Movie Options

And, because the littles love outdoor movies too, don’t miss Movie Nights at Columbus Commons featuring fun flicks for kids. Up next, on June 21, catch Mary Poppins Returns. Then, on July 19, watch How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World. All you need is a blanket or a chair. Or maybe something tasty from Taquero and Jeni’s. Movies start at dusk.

And once your outdoor movie whistle is wet, check out other options around town. Columbus Underground gathered a complete list here.