SHELLEY — Shelley families can bring their lawn chairs and blankets to Shelley City Park on July 9 for the first showing of Movies in the Park 2026, a free, family-friendly summer tradition organized by the city's recreation department to give residents a reason to get outside and spend time together.

The season opens with "GOAT," beginning at dusk, weather permitting. Three more showings follow throughout the summer: "Zootopia 2" on July 23, "The Goonies" on Aug. 13 and "Miracle" on Aug. 27, the latter held in celebration of America 250.

Mike Anderson, Shelley's recreation director, said the lineup each year comes together as a group effort among city staff.

"Everybody in the office kind of gets together and picks them, but our public works director, he picks them along with the council; they kind of base it off of what they're doing," Anderson said.

Since their earliest days, movies have functioned as a shared social experience, bringing people together in a communal setting rather than as something watched alone.

Events like Movies in the Park continue that same tradition, giving neighbors and families in Shelley a reason to gather outdoors and take part in a form of entertainment that has always been rooted in community.

The event has grown into something families look forward to every summer, Anderson said, largely because of the simple appeal of an outdoor movie night.

"It's fun to get outside and watch a movie to get together as a family," Anderson said.

That appeal has translated into strong community support over the years, with families returning summer after summer to take part.

"They wanted to keep coming back every year," Anderson said.

Anderson said the goal behind the event is simple: getting families outside, spending time together and enjoying the summer.

Movies in the Park is held at Shelley City Park, with each showing beginning at dusk. Organizers remind attendees to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets for seating.

The full 2026 schedule is as follows:

July 9 | GOAT

July 23 | Zootopia 2

Aug. 13 | The Goonies

Aug. 27 | Miracle, in celebration of America 250

Families are encouraged to mark their calendars and come out for a summer of free entertainment under the stars in Shelley City Park. Attendees should bring their own lawn chairs and blankets for seating.