Claremont Announces Free Outdoor Movie Series Starting July 8
The opening night will feature Pixar’s uplifting animated film Up, projected at Lewis Park on 881 Syracuse Dr. The screening begins at dusk, with the film launching roughly 30 minutes after sunset. Families are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks; the Parks and Recreation Department will supply a portable screen and sound system.
The schedule for the series is: • July 8 – Up at Lewis Park, 881 Syracuse Dr. • July 16 – Matilda at June Vail Park, 1717 N. Indian Hill Blvd. • July 22 – The Wild Robot at Wheeler Park, 626 Vista Dr. • July 30 – How to Train Your Dragon at Memorial Park, 840 N. Indian Hill Blvd. • August 4 – Zootopia 2 at Joat Park, 1717 N. Indian Hill Blvd.
All events are free and open to the public. The final screening, scheduled for August 4, will coincide with the city’s annual National Night Out, a community‑building event that has been held each year for several decades.
Lewis Park, the venue for the opening night, is a modest green space in the city’s heart that has hosted a range of public gatherings. June Vail Park, the second venue, is noted for its playground and open lawn, making it a favorite for families. Wheeler Park, located near Vista del Valle Elementary School, offers picnic tables and open fields. Memorial Park, along Indian Hill Boulevard, has a long history of hosting cultural events.
The Parks and Recreation Department has confirmed that each evening will start at dusk, with the film beginning about 30 minutes after sunset. Attendees should arrive early to secure a spot, and the city will provide the necessary screen and audio equipment.
Claremont’s initiative fits a growing trend among municipalities to offer free outdoor entertainment, aiming to strengthen community ties and provide low‑cost leisure options. The lineup blends classic and contemporary titles that appeal to a broad age range. Selecting Zootopia 2 for the National Night Out event is intended to draw families and underscore the city’s commitment to family‑friendly programming.
Residents and visitors can find additional information on the City of Claremont website at claremontca.gov/movies-in-the-park. The site lists parking options, public transportation routes, and any COVID‑19 guidelines that may still apply. For phone inquiries, the Parks and Recreation Department can be reached at (909) 399‑5490.
The movie series is expected to attract a significant number of attendees, given Claremont’s population of 37,266 as of the 2020 census and the city’s reputation for community events. The City of Claremont has a history of hosting outdoor movie nights, and the current schedule continues that tradition.
No changes to the schedule or venues have been announced. Tickets are not required, and all events remain free of charge. The series is open to all residents and visitors, and the city encourages families to attend and enjoy the local parks.
In summary, Claremont will begin its free outdoor movie series on July 8 with Up at Lewis Park and will continue with a series of family‑friendly films at various parks throughout July and early August. The final event will coincide with National Night Out on August 4, featuring Zootopia 2 at Joat Park. Residents can find more details on the city’s website or by calling the Parks and Recreation Department.