The free ‘Movies in the Park’ series is back by popular demand, and, this year, movie screenings won’t be limited to just summer months.

The 2012 movie series will run from spring to fall and will feature movies that were selected by residents and follow the theme of “Coming of Age.”

A screening of the film “American Graffiti” April 21 at Heman Park will kick-off the 2012 ‘Movies in the Park’ series. The final film of the series will be screened Oct. 13, and the movie will be determined by a “Viewer’s Choice” vote among residents.           

The films featured in the 2012 ‘Movies in the Park’ series include:

• “American Graffiti” (April 21) at Heman Park
• Ÿ“Cooley High” (May 19) at Millar Park
• “How to Train Your Dragon” (June 13) at Fogerty Park
• Ÿ“Akeelah & The Bee” (July 11) at Lewis Park
• Ÿ“Bend it Like Beckham" (August 8) at Flynn Park
• Ÿ“To Kill A Mockingbird” (September 15) at Fogerty Park
• ŸHalloween-themed Viewer's Choice: "Spirited Away" or "Stand By Me" or "Goonies" (October 13) at Heman Park

Sponsorships        

Sponsors are needed to help off-set costs of the movie copyrights. Sponsors will have their ads shown on the movie screen for 45-60 minutes prior to the show.

"Each movie costs approximately $700-$750, depending on copyrights," said Mayor Shelley Welsch. "Sponsors can support one movie and be the sole advertiser for the event, or can donate a lesser amount and share the advertising space with other donors. Donors of $250 and above will be featured on the big screen — exactly how and at which film will depend on the sponsorships received."

To make a donation or to sponsor a film, contact Welsch at mayor@ucitymo.org.

Donations may also be sent to the Mayor’s Office (City of University City, 6801 Delmar Blvd, 63130-4304). Mailed donations should include “Movies in the Park” in the check subject line.

Local schools also are invited to host refreshment stands at the movies. Interested school representatives should email Welsch at mayor@ucitymo.org. Refreshment stands will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.