City of Worcester, MA

Movies on the Common Returns to Downtown Worcester for Summer 2023

For Immediate Release: 6/1/2023 4:04 pm

WORCESTER, Mass. – The City of Worcester and the Downtown Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) are thrilled to announce the return of Movies on the Common, an exciting outdoor cinema experience in Downtown Worcester throughout the summer. With a diverse lineup of films and various themed nights, this year's series promises to bring joy, laughter, and family fun to the heart of Downtown Worcester.

“The Movies on the Common series not only provides a unique and engaging entertainment experience, but it also highlights the diverse cultural fabric of our city,” said Cultural Development Officer Fabian Barracks. “We are excited to present a fantastic selection of films that celebrate humor, pride, local talent, and the power of imagination.”

This year’s Movies on the Common series will also feature a variety of fun pre-movie activities at every event, including comedy, caricature artists, music, face painting, local food, and more.

“Movies on the Common is an event that showcases the vibrancy and community spirit of Downtown Worcester,” Executive Director of the Downtown Worcester BID Evelyn Darling said. “We are proud to offer this beloved summer tradition once again, inviting residents and visitors to come together, enjoy the beautiful outdoors, and immerse themselves in the magic of cinema.”

Mark your calendars with the following dates and movies this summer:

• Thursday, June 15: Comedy Night - Napoleon Dynamite | Joining the evening's festivities is local comedian Tom Dwyer, co-creator of the new show "Hollywoo.” The show’s trailer will be played for the first time ever before the movie.
• Thursday, July 20: Disability Pride Night - Turning Red | In partnership with the City of Worcester’s Accessibility Division and Accessibility Advisory Commission, and the Center for Living and Working, Movies on the Common proudly presents Turning Red, a heartwarming and empowering animated film about embracing individuality and overcoming obstacles.
• Thursday, August 17: Filmed in Worcester Night - Black Panther: Wakanda Forever | Before the movie, get the inside scoop on the film’s scenes shot in Worcester with a special behind-the-scenes talk from Edgar Luna, Business Development Manager for the City of Worcester.
• September 21: College Night - Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves | The evening will include a special screening of the Clark University student film “Long Play,” written by Liv Wilde and Directed by Gyani Pradhan Wong Ah Sui.

Pre-movie activities begin at 6:30 p.m. and all movies will start at dusk. English closed captioning will be available.

Attendees are encouraged to come early for their choice of seating. Space is first come, first served. Bring your own blankets and chairs or use seating available on the Common. Refreshments can be purchased on-site, at one of many Downtown restaurants just steps away from the Common, or you're welcome to bring your own. The first 100 attendees will receive free popcorn, and the first 50 attendees will also receive a free food/drink voucher to use at one of the on-site food vendors.

The 2023 Movies on the Common series is proudly presented by Mercantile Center, Clark University, Perrone Landscaping, the Downtown Worcester BID, and the City of Worcester. Additional support has been provided by Cornerstone Bank and the Worcester Cultural Coalition.

All movies will be shown on the Worcester Common, behind City Hall, located at 455 Main Street.

For more information and updates about Movies on the Common, follow @downtownworcesterbid on Instagram and Facebook.