MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The big hill at the end of Tom Lee Park that had many scratching their heads when it was being built now has a new use as an outdoor movie venue.
“Free Friday Flicks is to bring families down to Beale Street Landing and encourage them to enjoy the river front in a new and active way,” Dorchelle Spence, vice president of the Riverfront Development Corporation, said.
She added it’s about family fun on the banks of the Mississippi River.
“Our mission is to bring people to the water’s edge, more people to enjoy the riverfront in ways that they never have before,” Spence said.
“Movie night on the river. Water, scenery, the sunset. It think that’s a good thing,” Cynthia Griffin, who was visiting Beale Street Landing’s playground Friday with her 1-year-old granddaughter, said.
There will be restrictions though. Blankets and lawn chairs are allowed, but you can’t bring in food. Concessions will be for sale.
“We are gonna have food trucks out here for people who want to get something quick and easy. We also have Riverfront Bar and Grill that’s open and have their full menu. Up here on the roof top deck, we have some beverages for those who want to enjoy a Coke or cold ice water,” Spence said.
With two places to get food on site, they say lines shouldn’t be a problem.
Those who already lunch at Beale Street Landing think an evening attraction is a great option.
“This is something new so I think they will like coming down this way. Getting the word out that’s one of the biggest things they are trying to do and so far I think they are doing a good job,” Tommie Estell, who was having lunch at Beale Street Landing Friday afternoon, said.
Riverside Drive will be closed Friday night, not because of the movie, but because of preparations for this weekend’s Stone Soul Picnic in Tom Lee Park.
Movie-goers are advised to park at Wagnor Place or anywhere else downtown, and walk down to Beale Street Landing.
The family friendly PG-Rated movies will run every Friday through October 17th, and will include movies like Back to the Future, Men in Black, and The Incredibles.
Future plans at Beale Street Landing call for Monday Night Football viewing in the Bar and Grill and Dancing on the Dock Wednesday nights.