Cheney Friday night movies go drive-in style

CHENEY – The popular Friday Night Movie series is reviving a format popular years ago when the automobile was king.

The Parks and Recreation Department has moved the series to a drive-in movie style venue that will be held in the Cheney Middle School parking lot on Betz Road. Normally held at the Sutton Park gazebo, City Administrator Mark Schuller said they made the move last week after consulting with Spokane Regional Health District Health Officer Dr. Bob Lutz.

Movies are not considered live entertainment, which is prohibited under Phase 2 of the state’s reopening plans. The city’s other weekly summer feature, Wednesday concerts at Sutton Park, is still on hold.

“Concerts, however, are not allowed at this time as they are “live” entertainment,” Schuller said. “If the restriction is lifted, we would resume the concert series, although I think that is unlikely at this point.”

Movies begin at dusk on the east side of the middle school. Cones have been set up and staff will be on hand to direct traffic, with cars parked alternately every other spot throughout the lot.

Viewers can tune their radio to FM 97.9 to hear the movie. Everyone must stay in their vehicles, and no concessions will be sold, so remember to bring your own snacks.

The first movie took place last Friday, July 24. The remaining schedule is as follows:

July 31 – Mary Poppins Returns

Aug. 7 – Toy Story 4

Aug. 14 – Peanut Butter Falcon (PG-13)

Aug. 21 – Robin Hood

The Parks and Recreation staff asks movie patrons to be patient and respectful while searching for a parking spot or being directed by staff. If you do have to leave your vehicle for any reason, a cloth face covering must be worn.

The Summer Concerts in the Park series was scheduled to run July 15 – Aug. 19.

John McCallum can be reached at [email protected].