Central Park Film Festival Coming to Harlem's Marcus Garvey Park

HARLEM, NY — The Central Park Conservancy Film Festival is coming to Harlem. In an effort to change up the format of the annual free movie series, the first two movies will be screened in Harlem's Marcus Garvey Park rather than Central Park.

The film festival's first showing, the 2003 coming-of-age rock comedy "School of Rock," will be held Monday, August 22. The screenings at Marcus Garvey Park are the result of a partnership between Harlem Historic Parks and the Central Park Conservancy.

This year's film lineup showcases movies that all have ties to New York City. The films were either set in New York or filmed in parts of the city.

All of the movie showings are completely free to attend. The gates open at 6:30 p.m. and the movies begin at 8 p.m., so be sure to get there early and claim a spot with a good view of the screen. Don't worry about sitting around bored for an hour, as a DJ will be spinning tunes until the movie starts.

Moviegoers will also be able to purchase some snacks as they wait. Cool Haus Gourmet Ice Cream Sandwiches and Andy's Italian Ices will be set up and selling their goods.

But there are some rules. Guests will not be allowed to bring in alcoholic beverages, glass bottles, chairs, video cameras, and tape recorders.

Here's the full schedule for the Central Park Conservancy Film Festival:

• Monday, Aug. 22, Marcus Garvey Park Amphitheater: "School of Rock" (2003)
• Tuesday, Aug. 23, Marcus Garvey Park Amphitheater: "The Last Dragon" (1985)
• Wednesday, Aug. 24, Central Park: "I am Legend" (2007)
• Thursday, Aug. 25, Central Park: "Tootsie" (1982)
• Friday, Aug. 26, Central Park: "Desperately Seeking Susan" (1985)
• Saturday, Aug. 27 Central Park: "Stuart Little" (1999)

All film showings at Central Park will be held between Sheep Meadow and 72nd Street Cross Drive.

[Photo: Momos / Wikimedia Commons]