Set Up Guide

Movies in the Park Sponsorship Program

Program Overview: Movies in the Park is already a beloved community tradition, but sponsorships can take it to the next level. Partnering with local businesses helps cover equipment, licensing, and promotion costs—turning a simple outdoor movie night into a polished, memorable series. Sponsors gain consistent visibility in front of families and residents, while your department delivers a program with higher quality, less strain on budgets, and a lasting community impact.

Set Up Guide for a Movies in the Park Sponsorship Program

1. Create Sponsorship Opportunities

Before you can start getting sponsors, you’ll need to determine a few key details that will guide their participation and make it easy for them to get involved.

Determine Sponsorship Options: You can offer one business to serve as the presenting sponsor for each movie, or create tiered sponsorships that allow multiple sponsors to be recognized on the same night. For example, a single presenting sponsor could receive top billing, while three supporting sponsors share recognition for that evening’s event.
Share Event Schedule: Let sponsors choose a specific night to support.
Highlight Sponsor Recognition: Show where sponsor logos and messages will appear (onscreen, banners, or promotional materials).
Set Sponsorship Cost: Price levels based on exposure and exclusivity. For example, a presenting sponsor for one movie might be $1,000, while three supporting sponsors at $300 each share recognition on the same night. Offer discounted packages for sponsors who commit to multiple movies or the full season.

Ideas for
Sponsorship Benefits

Onscreen Recognition: Sponsor logos or thank-you slides shown before the movie.
Banner Placement at Event: Visible signage near entrances, concessions, or seating areas.
Announcements Before the Show: Verbal recognition of sponsors by the event host.
Digital & Print Promotion: Sponsors featured on event posters, websites, and social media posts.
VIP Perks: Premium sponsors may host a booth, give out branded items, or receive reserved seating.

2. Streamline the Steps for Sponsors

Once you’ve outlined the details, make it simple for sponsors to participate. Sponsors are more likely to commit when the process is simple and professional.

Provide a Digital Sponsorship Packet: Include the movie series schedule, sponsorship options and costs, and sponsor perks.
Collect Sponsor Details: Capture logos, contact info, and any on-screen messages.
Offer Easy Payment Methods: Accept sponsor payments online, or allow manual payments for those who prefer checks.

Did You Know?

Movies in the Park programs often draw larger audiences than regular youth sports games or concerts, making them a top sponsorship opportunity for local businesses.

3. Keep Everything Organized

Managing multiple sponsors across multiple movie nights requires great organization and management from you and your team!

Track Sponsorship Commitments: Record which sponsors are attached to which movie nights or sponsorship package.
Monitor Payments: Confirm funds are received and processed before event dates.
Organize Sponsor Materials: Store logos, slides, and banners in one place to avoid last-minute issues.
Thank Your Sponsors: Recognize contributions at the event and follow up with appreciation after the Movie Series.