As it has for nearly 50 years, Merriweather Post Pavilion will be home to this summer’s hottest concerts. And for the first time, it is also home to a series of classic summer movies. Utilizing the amphitheater’s high-definition video screens and featuring food and beverage choices from Manor Hill Brewing and Tavern, Merriweather Movie Nights will offer guests an outdoor movie experience unlike any other.
“We are excited to open Merriweather to our community for these music-themed movie nights, which are sure to offer something for everyone,” said Ian Kennedy, executive director of the Downtown Columbia Arts and Culture Commission (DCACC). “As the owners of this cherished amphitheater, we are excited to introduce new, community-focused programming at Merriweather, and these movie nights are just the beginning.”
The series kicked off on Memorial Day Weekend with the musical “Grease”; subsequent movies will include “The Last Waltz” on June 28, “Moana” on July 26 and “School of Rock” on Aug. 30. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and the movie starts at 7:30 p.m.
Guests will have the choice of free, general admission seating under the stars on the lawn or within certain sections of the pavilion, or for $10, they can purchase a reserved pavilion seat in a prime viewing area with access to the venue’s new party deck. Tickets, free or paid, are required for attendees and can be obtained at www.merriweathermusic.com/community-events/ or www.dcacc.info/mppmovies.
But it’s not just the venue that will make this series special. Manor Hill Brewing and Tavern will be on hand each night with a diverse selection of locally-crafted food and beer available for purchase.
“People have come to expect great things from Manor Hill and Merriweather, so the pairing is a natural fit,” said Randy Marriner of Manor Hill Brewing and Tavern. “We can’t wait to help redefine the ‘dinner and a movie’ experience in Howard County this summer.”
In addition to Manor Hill, the Merriweather Movie Nights are possible because of the support of its sponsors — Costello Construction of Maryland, Howard Bank, Columbia Association, the Howard County Economic Development Authority and the Creig Northrop Team of Long & Foster Real Estate.
“We want to be able to offer programming at Merriweather that is open and accessible to everyone at low- or no-cost to residents, and that’s only possible because of the great community partners who have offered to support these movie nights,” said Kennedy.