Buffalo’s Olmsted Parks Bring Back Free Family Movie Nights

Grab a blanket and a lawn chair — Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy is bringing back its free Family Movie Night series, giving families across the city a reason to gather under the stars in two of Buffalo’s most beloved green spaces.

WHERE AND WHEN

The series unfolds across four evenings in two parks:

Prospect Park (Connecticut St and Niagara St)

• August 14 — The Wild Robot

• August 28 — The Princess and the Frog

Riverside Park (by the T-Ball Diamond, Crowley and Tonawanda St)

• August 21 — Up

• September 4 — The Mitchells vs the Machines

Each screening runs from approximately 8:00 to 9:30 p.m., with films beginning at sunset.

WHAT TO BRING

Admission is completely free. Organizers recommend bringing a picnic blanket, lawn chairs, and your family’s favorite snacks to settle in for the evening. Since the events are weather dependent, please refer to the Conservancy’s Facebook and Instagram (@bfloparks) for last minute updates before heading out.

OMMUNITY SUPPORT BEHIND THE SCREEN

The series is made possible in part thanks to funding secured by New York State Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera. The Conservancy is also inviting local businesses and community members to become official “movie night crew” sponsors, with recognition packages ranging from $500 to $1,000 that include name and logo placement on marketing materials and social media shoutouts.

Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “Buffalo’s parks are some of our community’s greatest assets, and programs like Family Movie Night help bring neighbors together in a welcoming and affordable way. I was proud to secure state funding to support the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy and help make these free events possible for families across our city. Whether it’s introducing children to a favorite film, enjoying an evening outdoors, or simply spending quality time together, these movie nights create lasting memories while showcasing the natural beauty of our park system. I encourage families from across Buffalo to bring a blanket, gather their loved ones, and take advantage of this wonderful summer tradition.”

Whether you’re a longtime Olmsted Parks regular or looking for a new summer tradition, this movie night series offers a simple, free way to enjoy Buffalo’s historic parks with the whole family. Bookmark www.bfloparks.org/ movie-nights for future reference.

For sponsorship details, contact Anna Kaplan, Deputy Director of Strategic Initiatives and Development, at Anna@bfloparks.org.