Movies in the Park

In 2025, the Lewiston Community Association hosted a free summer series (July-October) Movies in the Park Night on the last Friday of each month at the Lewiston Community Park.  This new outdoor community engagement activity “under the stars” was a blockbuster hit for children and families.  The first movie night was well attended and two families BBQ'd hot dogs for everyone.  This generous gesture of community kindness and sharing grew into a joint collaboration with the Lewiston Fresh Start Food Pantry that donates funds each month in alignment with their mission to feed the community at these events.  As a result of this nonprofit partnership, LCA offers free hot dogs and burgers in addition to free popcorn at every movie night.  In October, not even the rain could damper our spirits and our volunteers quickly moved the outdoor event to the community gym so the show could go on! As a result of community feedback and the popularity of this summer program; LCA will expand movies in the park night to be a monthly event in 2026.  This is a great way for the community to gather during the off season while avoiding “cabin fever” during the inclement weather months in our mountain community.  To support the expansion of this program, LCA has received a generous donation of equipment so we no longer have to rent it.   

Accordingly, we are focusing one of our Giving Tuesday campaign goals on raising funds for the annual licensing fees to expand this popular summer program from 4 movies to 12 movies making it a year-round program in 2026.  The Federal Copyright Act requires a public performance license for any public showing of a copyrighted movie, even if admission is free, and even in the case of nonprofits hosting the events.  

Without these nonprofit hosted events, Lewiston families would have to drive approximately a half hour to the nearest movie theater in another town.  Movies can be a costly night out for most families, especially when concessions are included. These types of free events offered in our own town provide accessible, fun entertainment that brings diverse community members and visitors together, fostering a sense of unity and showcasing one of the many ways LCA is investing in the community's well-being as part of our mission. 

With your generous donations, you can help us reach our 2026 goal.  The licensing fees are estimated at $4,800.00 and we are asking for an additional $200 to cover supplies for the year such as popcorn bags, plates and other miscellaneous supplies.   Total fundraising goal is $5,000.

Thank your in advance for your support!