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'Starlight in the Park' Movie Night is family event where you can strike up a conversation with other moms

As a relatively new transplant to Castle Rock, I find myself wanting to experience everything this wonderful town has to offer. Going to the first Starlight Movie of the summer, Big Hero 6, was a perfect way to experience not only the charm of the Town of Castle Rock itself, but also the endearing people that live here.

Located in Festival Park off Perry St. and 2nd St., this is a free family-friendly event open to anyone, no tickets necessary, which happens every month during the summer. It starts at 6pm and provides a wonderful ambiance of vendors, food, live music, and of course an outdoor movie beginning at sundown, usually around 9 pm.

There was musical entertainment for the crowd
Band Jones and Raine provided musical entertainment for the crowd

Traditional and modern worlds collide as you arrive, with the sights of children laughing and playing with their free balloons, throwing footballs around or just rolling down the grassy hills. There were two different bounce houses and a rock climbing wall, sure to entertain children of many ages. The band Jones and Raine provided the entertainment, playing popular country songs like “Homegrown” by Zac Brown Band and fun music like “Footloose,” giving the event an All-American feel.

For those who came hungry, there was a Dancing Dawgz food truck, servicing hot dogs and pulled pork sandwiches, with sides and candy. Ooey Gooey — a family sweetery, was another food truck serving an assortment of cupcakes and cake pops, as well as gluten free options. Catering to all ages and crowds, there was even Lone Tree Brewing Company serving beer and wine for adults.

Bouncy castles were present for bouncing kiddo fun!
Bouncy castles were present for bouncing kiddo fun!

In addition to vendors, people brought their own food, or ordered takeout from the many nearby restaurants and had dinner picnic style with their families (which is something to consider due to the limited food selection).

This is a fantastic event for our community that, even though there were technical difficulties, pulls the community together, rolls with the punches by turning up the music and having a big dance party. Unfortunately because of the technicalities, the movie started late, past toddler bedtime. If your kids are older this event is perfect.

Two pieces of advice:
1.) Make sure to bring blankets and grab a spot on the lawn as soon as you arrive or you may not like your seats.
2.) Bring an umbrella, as Colorado’s summers seem to be somewhat bipolar.

If you missed Big Hero 6 Saturday night, here are the other family movies they will be showing, so mark them on your calendar:
1.) Starlight movie #2: July 3rd, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.
2.) Starlight movie #3: August 1st, Cinderella.
3.) Starlight movie #4: September 5th, Captain America: The Winter Soldier

There will also be 2 special movie events for adults 21 and over:
1.) “Classic Movie Night”—June 27th, Casablanca
2.) “Whisky & a Western”—September 19th, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
Both adult events cost $25, which includes food, movie and a souvenir (martini class for Classic Movie night, shot class for Western night).

Enjoy these fun outdoor summer activities while you can because a few months from now, snow and cold weather will be looming!