Calling all movie buffs! Head to the Chestnut Street Paseo Friday evenings this September to enjoy free movies at the community’s new pop-up park in Downtown Menlo Park. On Sept. 4, the fun begins at 5:30 p.m. with the Police Department’s “Friday Night Lights,” a community tailgate party complete with pizza, popcorn, soft drinks and giveaways. This will be followed by the Menlo Movie Series screening of “Guardians of the Galaxy.” Outdoor movie events offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors while relaxing with family and friends. So bring your chair, a snack and a friend and enjoy an evening of fun in the great outdoors with your great Menlo Park neighbors.

The pop-up park and Menlo Movie Series is made possible through provisions of the El Camino Real/Downtown Specific Plan which allow for public improvement pilot programs as “the basis for review and consideration of a permanent installment.” The pilot program began in fall 2014 featuring three family-friendly movies where attendees were encouraged to bring portable chairs and food from downtown merchants. The program provides the City with the opportunity to assess the level of public interest in similar permanent improvements on Santa Cruz Avenue, while also supporting the City Council’s goals of generating foot-traffic in downtown.