The Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department invites city residents to enjoy three evenings of free outdoor entertainment during the 2026 Movies in the Park series.
Families can gather under the stars for themed activities and family-friendly movies at two city parks in September and October.
Each event begins with a family-friendly pre-movie activities at 6:30 p.m., featuring themed games, crafts, and prizes inspired by the evening’s movie.
The feature presentation will begin at dusk. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating.
The 2026 Movies in the Park schedule includes:
Friday, Sept. 18 – “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants”
Machado Plaza, 224 W. Chapel St.
Friday, Sept. 25 – “Barbie”
Rotary Centennial Park, 2625 S. College Drive
Friday, Oct. 2 – “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie”
Rotary Centennial Park, 2625 S. College Drive
Each pre-movie event will feature activities inspired by the evening’s film, including a SpongeBob-themed Krabby Patty Challenge, a Barbie catwalk fashion show, and a Mario Kart balloon pop race.
Movies in the Park is made possible through the support of premier sponsor Driscoll’s Berries, along with community sponsors Vallarta Supermarkets and PLAY, Inc.
Direct questions to the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department, 805-925-0951 ext. 2260.