Free movies alfresco at La Plancha amphitheater for the month of love
When Mérida’s Parque La Plancha hosted two free movie nights over the weekend, stars were on the screen and overhead.
Attendees described watching “Toy Story” and “The Proposal” alfresco as a fun experience. The novelty of spreading out on the lawn to catch a flick made it a night to remember.
The films are being shown at the park amphitheater, with attendees sitting on the grass, so the city recommends that folks bring a towel or blanket.
Cine al Aire Libre will continue throughout November, with “The Parent Trap” and “50 First Dates” on Feb. 8 and 9.
The following weeks will feature “Aladdin” and “Valentine’s Day” on Feb. 15 and 16, with “Your Name” and “About Time” screening on Feb. 22 and 23.
Showtimes are 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 8 p.m. on Sundays.
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All screenings will be in Spanish, as described by Glinda, a Canadian living in Mérida: “As a communal experience, it’s well worth it, even if you don’t understand the dialogue.”
One does not need to be a film buff to notice that the bulk of the films being shown are romantic comedies. The event coincides with Valentine’s Day and February, which in México is known as “el mes del amor y la amistad” — the month of love and friendship.
However, if the screening of “Toy Story” was anything to go by, kid-friendly movies like “Aladdin” are likely to be well attended, too.
If the demand keeps up, there is a good possibility that future screenings, or even perhaps a full-blown outdoor film festival, could be viable.
This being La Plancha, there are several spots to pick up a snack while you enjoy the films, as well as access to bathrooms (5 pesos, coins only) and other facilities.
Yucatán’s Film Festival, FICMY, has not been held since 2020, but even then, a lack of promotion meant that the event flew under the radar for most of the public.
Senior Editor Carlos Rosado van der Gracht is a Mexican expedition/Canadian photographer, adventure leader, and PhD candidate. Born in Mérida, Carlos holds multimedia, philosophy, and translation degrees from universities in Mexico, Canada and Norway.
