David Foust of the Menifee Valley Historical Association helps guests pan for gold. (Photos by Ashley Beebe)
A movie under the stars, dancing, games, and vendors drew crowds Friday evening at Remington Park as the City of Menifee kicked off its annual “Park After Dark” summer series.
Families spread out across the lawn in chairs and blankets in preparation for a screening of “National Treasure.” Attendees were encouraged to bring snacks and picnic dinners, while an ice cream truck was available on-site.
The evening also featured an Adaptive Sports Fair with accessible lawn games, including chair volleyball, skeeball and axe throwing. Resource booths joined the event as well, offering information, prizes and merchandise.
City of Menifee employee and Liberty High School senior Zander Arroyo assisted with the activities and shared his excitement about the event.
“Events like these are a good way to bring the community together, so everyone can have a fun and a great time,” he said.
Before the screening, children danced to the “Cha Cha Slide” and the “Cupid Shuffle.” Free popcorn was also made available after the movie began on the big screen.
The Menifee Valley Historical Association hosted a gold-mining activity where attendees could pan for gemstones, fool’s gold, and fossils. Those who found treasure were able to keep their findings in a small pouch provided by the association.
“We want to pay tribute to our mining roots,” David Foust of the association said.
Foust discussed the town’s namesake, Luther Menifee Wilson, a miner who initially discovered a gold-bearing quartz ledge near what are now Holland and Murrieta roads, according to the association.
The “Park After Dark” summer series is intended to bring residents together through free family-friendly outings at city parks while highlighting activities for attendees of all ages.
The next Movie in the Park is set for May 29 at Banner Village Park from 7-10 p.m. The movie “Cars” will be shown with a classic car display presented by Sun City Cruizers. The series runs through July 31.
“Axe Throwing” was one of the games available to participants.
