Babe is a stranger, softer film than its talking-pig reputation suggests, and watching it outdoors on a Bronx parade ground with kids and dogs underfoot is close to the ideal setting. This is opening night of a four-Friday animal-movie run, so the crowd is fresh and the lawn is wide. Music and crafts from 5:30 p.m. make it a whole evening, not a two-hour sit.
What to expect
Bring a blanket or low chair and claim a patch of the Parade Ground's big open lawn while a 1995 playlist plays and kids work through movie-themed crafts. The screen lights up at last light, so the start drifts with the sunset rather than hitting a fixed clock time. Expect a relaxed, stroller-and-dog-friendly neighborhood crowd rather than a ticketed-event queue.
Good to know
- Free with no tickets or registration - just turn up. The Parade Ground sits at the Broadway edge of the park, beside the 1 train's Van Cortlandt Park-242 St ter
- Music and movie-themed crafts begin at 5:30 p.m.; the film itself starts at last light, so the 9:30 p.m. end time is the outside edge of the evening.
- This is week one of four. Best in Show follows on Sep 18, Ratatouille on Sep 25 and Paddington 2 on Oct 2, all in the same Friday slot.
- Thursday, October 8 is the season's official rain date.
- The Parade Ground is wide open with little tree cover - bring a layer, since it cools off quickly once the sun drops.
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Common questions
How much does it cost?
Nothing. NYC Parks lists the event as free, and the screenings are presented at no charge thanks to Horace Mann School.
What time does the movie actually start?
The listing runs 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., with music and crafts from 5:30 p.m. and the film beginning at last light. Aim to be settled before sunset.
What is showing on opening night?
Babe (1995). It opens Starlight Cinema: Four-Legged Friends, a four-week animal-movie series.
What happens if it rains?
Van Cortlandt Park Alliance has set Thursday, October 8 as the official rain date for the season. Check with them at 718-601-1460 or info@vancortlandt.org before travelling.
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