a peek inside the fishbowl

Movies on the Beach (a.k.a. Friday Night Flicks) has turned into a great Ottawa summer tradition. And it’s free! We’ve had great fun in past years.

Check out the lineup! There’s probably a movie playing near you at some point this summer:

July 22 at Westboro Beach: Zootopia
August 5 at Heritage Orleans Park: Minions
August 19 at Mooney’s Bay: Finding Nemo
September 2 at Larkin House Park in Barrhaven: Jungle Book

These are all perfect films for families, although I’m wondering if Jungle Book might be a little frightening for kids under 7 or 8. (As always, this depends on the kid!)

Visitors to Westboro Beach are in for a little treat. If you haven’t been there for awhile you’ll see that the underpass is (finally!) being painted. I think you’ll like what you see once you get there:

I have some tips for you, in case it’s your first time out:

• The movies start at sundown. Make sure you arrive early to nab a good spot.
• The movies start at sundown! This is worth repeating because the sun sets fairly late this time of year, which makes it a late night for the kiddos.
• Since you’re arriving early, keep the kids occupied with outdoor toys (buckets and shovels are perfect for Westboro Beach!) or spread out a blanket and bring a picnic.
• Grab blankets AND lawn chairs. You can watch the movie on a blanket (squirmy kids might enjoy lying on the ground) but most folks bring lawn chairs.
• Don’t forget the popcorn and snacks!
• Share the love and level it up by making it a date with another family and meeting there.
• Also, it might be an idea to tuck a flashlight and bug spray into your purse, just in case.

Do note that the event is weather-dependent! It’s always a good idea to make sure it’s still a go before you pack up and head out. Friday Night Flicks is sponsored by Majic 100 and CTV-Ottawa, so check their respective Facebook and Twitter pages beforehand! Apparently there’s also an event hashtag you can follow too: #MAJICFLICKS.