Pack your picnic blanket and popcorn! Bad Guys 2 and How to Train Your Dragon (2025) will screen in Stratford’s Victoria Park this Saturday 17 January.

Bad Guys 2, screening at 4pm, won the closely fought popular vote on Stratford District Council’s Facebook page for the animated movie people most wanted to see. How to Train Your Dragon, screening at 5.55pm, took out the family movie vote.

“We’re keeping the summer holiday vibe going,” says Anna-Louise Crane, Council’s Community Engagement and Development Lead. “What could be better than relaxing in the park on a summer afternoon with your friends and whānau, watching the sunset and enjoying the best Hollywood has to offer?”

“Bring a picnic, grab some kai from food trucks Mr Kool, Sumela Kebabs, and Safe Delights, or visit one of our tasty Stratford eateries for takeaways. Umbrellas and chairs are fine; just be mindful of those around you so everyone can see and have a good time.”

The free movie evening is one of two Summer Nights events. The second is a live concert in Stratford’s King Edward Park featuring Rowdy’s Rose and Jake Whittaker, bringing a fresh country sound to the district on Saturday 31 January. Both events have been made possible through support from Taranaki Electricity Trust and the Toi Foundation.

For more information about Summer Nights, visit Stratford.govt.nz

Anna-Louise says, “We’ve got our fingers crossed for sunny summer weather! Don’t forget to download the free Antenno app or check Stratford.govt.nz for any event updates. See you at the movies!”

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