Free Movies under the Stars series returns July 5

Christ the King Lutheran Church has announced the lineup for its 2024 First Fridays: Movies Under the Stars free summer movie series.

This is the fourth year the church has offered the outdoor monthly movie series for the community. Held on the first Fridays of July, August and September on church-owned property at the corner of 16th Street and St. Maries Avenue in Coeur d’Alene, the family-friendly movie nights begin approximately 15 minutes after sunset with free popcorn and refreshments also available.

The summer series will begin with the 2017 family drama, "Wonder," at 9 p.m. July 5. The Aug. 2 film, "Madagascar," will begin at 8:30 p.m. The final film in the series, "Migration," will be at 7:45 p.m. Sept. 6.

All films are rated PG.

Eric Nelson, minister of children, youth and family outreach at Christ the King, said in a Monday news release the movie series was created during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic to help bring the neighborhood together in a safe, outdoor and family-friendly atmosphere.

“We love our neighbors because Jesus loves us first and this is just one way we can then give back," Nelson said. "We want to bring the community together in a family-friendly and safe environment to be able to just hang out together. It benefits families and community to spend time together and it brings us joy to be able to provide that.”

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Funding for the First Friday events is provided by Christ the King Lutheran Church. This year, the series is also partially sponsored by Cody Spencer from Embrace Realty Group. Spencer, whose children attended Christ the King’s Early Learning Center, wanted to be a part of this summer event and be able to invite family and friends.

All movies included in the series are licensed for public viewing through Swank Motion Pictures.