What is Screen on the Green?
Screen on the green is an annual series of movies put on by the Short North Civic Association. What they do is bring an inflatable big screen to Goodale Park on select Friday evenings, in the heart of the Short North.
Best of all? The movie itself is FREE! Speaking from experience, this is a great summer date night. It gives you a way to relax outdoors on the cheap, so you can enjoy those summer nights.
When is Screen on the Green?
The events are scheduled from 7p-10p on Friday evenings, but the time of each movie varies with the season, as they don’t actually kick off the movie until sunset. They usually put on 3 different screenings – one in July, August, and September. They usually show classics – last year was Jaws and Edward Scissorhands.
This will be the 13th season (Summer 2021) for Screen on the Green. The scheduled events are these:
Ghostbusters – July 16
To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything, Julie Newman – August 20
Paddington 2 – September 17
Check out the Short North Civic Association’s Facebook events or their events page at shortnorthcivic.org for details.
Where is Screen on the Green, and where can I park?
Screen on the green sets up on the softball field in the corner of Gooodale Park, where Goodale and Dennison intersect. There is a small on-site lot with pay parking, as well as meters on streets around the park.
What about food and drinks?
The event is supported by local Studio 35 Cinema and Drafthouse, which brings free popcorn for you to enjoy. A food truck is on site for you to grab dinner if you wish – in the past season we’ve seen Ajumama and Queen’s Table trucks. Of course, you can also bring your own supplies and have a little picnic!
Our experience / What you need to know:
Worried about the movie and sound quality? Don’t be. The movie doesn’t start until dusk, so you won’t have any problem seeing the giant inflatable screen. The speakers deliver theater-grade sound that is plenty loud – those in front be warned!
We arrived about an hour early, as we wanted to enjoy the last bit of sunshine and grab some dinner at the food truck. Although we were not the first ones there, we had no problem getting a spot right up front.
As this was in the thick of the summer of COVID, all parties were socially-distanced appropriately, so I would recommend getting there at least a half hour early if you’re picky about your seat. They will likely continue distancing requirements until all COVID safety restrictions have been lifted. Be sure to bring your own chairs, blankets, and mask. Note that you will be asked to carry out your own trash.
Other things to do in the area
Getting out on a Friday night after a long week can be a big ask. Fuel up with some coffee from Boston Stoker, within walking distance.
Going out for a bite and a beer before the show? We recommend Barley’s Brewing Company, only a couple blocks from the park.
If you want to peruse perhaps the most hip area of Columbus, take a stroll through the Short North: grab a book at Prologue Bookshop, an ice cream cone at Jeni’s, or take in the views at Lincoln Social Rooftop
Questions, Comments, or Concerns?
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