Marcus Theatres
There’s much to love about summer, including the fun programs at theaters that make it possible to take the kids to the movies without busting the entertainment budget. See a film for a dollar? Yes, please! Check out some of these wallet-friendly movie programs at theaters this summer.
RELATED: Every free kid-friendly outdoor movie playing this summer
Wintrust Morning Movie Series at Classic Cinemas
When: June 5-Aug. 7 (Wednesdays)
Where: Various locations in Chicago suburbs (check website)
Cost: $1
Doors open at 9 a.m. and moviegoers are encouraged to come early for games and activities before the film. You might even see some of your favorite characters! Movies in the series include:
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- June 5: Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero
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- June 12: Trolls
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- June 19: Teen Titans Go! To the Movies
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- June 26: Smallfoot
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- July 3: Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax
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- July 10: Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation
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- July 17: The LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part
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- July 24: Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch
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- July 31: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World
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- Aug. 7: Wonder Park
Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse
When: Late May-August, 10 a.m. on weekdays that vary by theater
Where: Various locations in Chicago suburbs (check website)
Cost: $1 (or get a 10-movie punch card for $5)
Chicagoland locations include theaters in Melrose Park, North Aurora, Woodridge, Evanston and Deer Park. This year’s lineup involves fun kid films like “Peter Rabbit” or “How to Train Your Dragon.” Check their website for the movie lineup for each theater.
Regal Summer Movie Express
When: June-August (Tuesdays & Wednesdays)
Where: Chicago (2600 N. Western Avenue), Lake Zurich and Round Lake Beach
Cost: $1
There are two movies shown at the same time and each week both movies play on both days. Visit the Regal Summer Movie Express website for details and a list of films playing, including “Kung Fu Panda” and “Shrek.”
Marcus Theatres Kids Dream Summer Film Series
When: June 16-Aug. 14 (Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m.)
Where: Various locations in Chicago suburbs (check website)
Cost: $3
Families can enjoy discount tickets to movies like “Lego Movie 2,” “A Dog’s Way Home” and “Wonder Park.” Popcorn and fountain drinks are available for $2.75 each. Movies include:
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- June 16, 17 and 19: The Lego Movie 2
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- June 23, 24 and 26: The Lorax
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- June 30, July 1 and 3: A Dog’s Way Home
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- July 7, 8 and 10: Smallfoot
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- July 14, 15 and 17: Hotel Transylvania 3
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- July 21, 22 and 24: Despicable Me
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- July 28, 29 and 31: Wonder Park
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- Aug. 4, 5 and 7: The Grinch
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- Aug. 11, 12 and 14: How to Train Your Dragon 3
Studio Movie Grill Children’s Summer Series
When: May-August
Where: Chicago (210 W. 87th St.), Wheaton
Cost: $1
Escape the summer heat with movies like “Despicable Me” and “Puss in Boots.” Find more information here.
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This article has been updated with the most recent information. It was originally published on May 26, 2017.