This week Portland Parks and Recreation is launching it’s annual series of free events in the parks. If you haven’t been to any of these movies, concerts or plays in past summers, it’s definitely worth your while to come down. And if you’ve been to them in the past, don’t forget to keep them on your radar! This series features movies ranging from kid friendly favorites like Ratatouille to classic films like Casablanca. Musical performances range from jazz to bluegrass to traditional African drumming. While not directly part of the series, keep your eye out for Shakespeare in the Park, which showcases both the sidesplitting comedies of the Bard and his darker plays, often with a modern interpretation. All of these events are free and open to the public and take place in parks throughout Portland. Not only are the a fun way to spend an evening with family and friends, but you’d be surprised at how many more steps on your pedometer you can rack up seeing a movie in a park than watching one at home. Come early for a brisk walk around the park, or challenge yourself to biking over. Even if you don’t have the extra time, you’ll still get exercise walking from your car, and running after your kids. Let’s be honest, they can never stay still in a park!

For more information here are the links on the Portland Parks and Recreation website:

https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/446659

https://www.portlandoregon.gov