Free Hocus Pocus movie in the park is coming to Midland, Michigan, on Saturday, October 17, 2026. Midland Parks and Recreation is hosting a free Halloween carpool screening at Stratford Woods Park beginning at 7:30 p.m. Families can watch from their vehicles using an FM radio or bring blankets and chairs to sit in the parking lot. The event is open to all ages, but the city notes that the movie may be too scary for some younger children.
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Free Hocus Pocus Movie in the Park Details
Midland Parks and Recreation has confirmed a free screening of the 1993 Halloween movie Hocus Pocus at Stratford Woods Park. The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2026, and the movie begins at 7:30 p.m.
This is a no-admission-cost community event. You do not need to buy a movie ticket to attend. Food trucks are expected to be on site, but food and drinks are separate purchases and are not required to watch the movie.
Where the Halloween Movie Takes Place
The screening is scheduled for Stratford Woods Park at 3922 E. Ashman Street in Midland, Michigan. The city describes the setup as a carpool cinema-style event, giving attendees two different ways to enjoy the movie.
You can remain in your vehicle and listen to the movie audio through an FM car stereo, or you can bring blankets and chairs and sit in the parking lot. Plan for cool October evening weather if you choose the outdoor seating option.
Date, Time, and Admission
The event takes place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. Because it is a one-night Halloween event, there is a reliable fixed date, so this offer should be treated as expiring after October 17.
Arriving before the movie starts should make it easier to get settled, choose your viewing setup, and visit the food trucks if you want to purchase refreshments. Check the city’s current event page on the day of the screening for any last-minute weather updates.
What to Bring
If you plan to watch from your vehicle, make sure your car radio is working so you can tune in to the movie audio. If you prefer to sit outside the vehicle, bring folding chairs, blankets, and anything else you need to stay comfortable.
Midland Parks and Recreation does not list a required purchase or registration fee for the movie. The city does note that food trucks will be present with food available for purchase, so bring a payment method only if you want to buy something.
Weather Backup Plan
This event is weather dependent, but Midland has announced a backup plan. If rain or severe weather makes the outdoor screening impractical, the movie will be moved to the auditorium at the Grace A. Dow Memorial Library, located at 1710 W. St. Andrews Road.
For cancellation or weather updates, the city directs visitors to its Rainout Line at 989-399-0506. Because weather can change quickly in October, checking the event status before leaving home is a smart step.
Is the Movie Good for Young Kids?
The event is open to all ages, but Midland Parks and Recreation specifically advises viewers to use discretion because the movie may be too scary for some younger children. Hocus Pocus is a Halloween comedy with witches, spooky themes, and supernatural scenes.
Parents and caregivers know their children best, so consider the movie’s tone before attending. If your child is sensitive to Halloween imagery, a different seasonal event may be a better fit.
More Free Halloween Activities
If you are looking for more seasonal ideas,
You can also check the Halloween Freebies and Free Events sections for other verified October opportunities. Local events often have limited dates and weather-sensitive plans, so always verify the provider page before heading out.
Final Thoughts
This free Halloween movie night is a solid local family event for Midland-area readers who want an October activity without an admission charge. You can watch from your car or bring chairs and blankets for the outdoor viewing area, and the city has a library backup location if severe weather develops.
Mark Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. on your calendar and check the Midland Parks and Recreation event page before leaving home. The movie itself is free, while food truck purchases are optional.
