Two nights of mega movies are slated for the Saanich Fairgrounds this summer.
Hosted by the Saanichton Village Association, the free films promise family fun and games with as side of food.
The events started few years ago in Centennial Park, said Marti Redman, Saanichton Village Association treasure.
“It was great, it’s a beautiful environment but we switched over to the fairgrounds because they have a little better infrastructure to support us,” Redman said. “They’ve been a wonderful partner for the Saanichton Village Association.”
The association has hosted about five now, which is in line with their mandate to promote community and create fun events.
“All of that just enriches the life we live out here,” Redman said.
Back to the Future hits the big screen on Saturday, Aug. 17 while Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle airs Saturday, Aug. 24, both at 1528 Stelly’s Cross Road.
They’ve tested the waters on a few formats, and the two Saturdays in August seem a good fit, opening up to those who may be vacationing and miss one, and also allowing the younger crowd to stay up a little later.
“We love them, we know people love them, we know late in the summer is a great time for them because the sun is setting earlier,” Redman said. “We know people go away over the summer and we want to be able to catch both crowds.”
Aug. 17 features live music with the return of the Shenanigans who were well received last year.
Aug. 24 residents can play field games – like corn hole and ladder golf and giant Jenga – with members of the VIJHL's Peninsula Panthers. It fits nicely with the Jumanji as a game theme, Redman said.
As far as feeding the family goes, folks are welcome to pack a picnic or purchase some goodies on site.
Alongside other food vendors, service clubs will be on site with Central Saanich Lions hosting a barbecue during the event, low cost dinner for a good cause, while Sidney Rotary is trying a new thing – Dole Whip.
Thanks to a grant from Central Saanich and the support of local businesses the event remains free.
Gates open at 6 p.m. with movies starting at dusk.
