Backyard Campout

Kennesaw-area families don’t have to venture far from home to enjoy the magic of outdoor fun. Kennesaw Parks & Recreation is hosting its annual Outdoor Movie Series and Backyard Campout, offering two evenings of family-friendly entertainment and a night under the stars at Swift-Cantrell Park, 3140 Old 41 Highway. The Outdoor Movie Series features two movies in May and June, shown on a giant LED screen in a large field at the park. Movies are generally family-friendly with PG ratings, and this year’s lineup includes Disney’s Atlantis: The Lost Empire (PG) on Saturday, May 16, and DreamWorks’ Madagascar (PG) on Saturday, June 6. Attendees are welcome to bring blankets, chairs, and snacks for their own comfort. No high-backed chairs, umbrellas, tents, or pop-up canopies are allowed, as these can block the view for others. Food vendors will be on-site beginning at 6:00 p.m., or guests may bring their own food. Glass containers are not permitted. VIP Tents are also available for both movie nights. Four VIP tents will be available at each showing, which include a 10’x10’ tent installed by Parks & Recreation staff, a 6’ table, and 6 chairs. Tents are placed toward the back of the viewing area so they don’t block anyone’s view. Rentals are $50 per tent, with early check-in beginning at 5:00 p.m. Tents remain set up until the end of the movie. VIP tents can be purchased at https://secure.rec1.com/GA/kennesaw-ga/catalog. Activities before the movie include free games in front of the screen, where attendees can win fun prizes. In conjunction with the May 16 movie, the Backyard Campout presented by Dick’s House of Sports will take place Saturday, May 16, through Sunday morning, May 17. This annual overnight event gives families the chance to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature right in their own community. The campout proudly supports the National Wildlife Federation’s mission to inspire children and families to explore the outdoors and build meaningful connections with nature. Participants may bring their own tent for $35 or reserve a pre-set campsite prepared by REI Co-op for $50. Each campsite is 10’x10’ and includes dinner and breakfast. Campsites are limited, and advance registration is required at https://secure.rec1.com/GA/kennesaw-ga/catalog. The 2026 Outdoor Movie Series is presented by Cobb EMC