Free Summer Movies for Kids

The old saying "you can't get something for nothing" doesn't always hold true for families looking for entertainment during the summer. Many movie theaters offer free or drastically reduced rates for kids movies during the summer. Here's what to expect.

- Movies that have already been released to DVD
Your local movie theater will probably be playing the big summer blockbusters, but don't expect them to include these in the free or very cheap summer movie program. Free summer movie programs typically feature G- or PG-rated movies that have already been released on DVD. Some movies that you might see this summer include Alvin and the Chipmunks, Shrek 3, and The Bee Movie.

- Early show times
Free and cheap summer movies for kids are usually shown early in the day to leave the screens available for other movies later in the day.

- Lots of people
Everyone loves free stuff. So if you're planning to take the kids to a free or cheap showing, be sure to get there early. Many summer movie programs are run on a first-come, first-serve basis. Don't miss out by showing up at the last minute.

- Regular prices for everything but the movie
Movie theaters make most of their profits not from ticket sales, but from all the popcorn, soda and candy they sell at the concession stand. So be prepared to shell out the same amount of money for a bag of popcorn during the free show as you would at a showing of the latest Hollywood blockbuster.

Ready? Check out the list below, then grab the kids and have some fun!

Regal has been offering summer movies for kids since 1991. Selected G- and PG-rated movies start at 10AM each Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. First-come, first-served seating is limited to theatre capacity.

Visit Regal Cinemas Free Family Film Festival for more information.

AMC's Summer MovieCamp isn't free, but your $1 donation will go to a good cause. All admission proceeds for their Wednesday morning summer movies for kids will benefit Variety - The Children's Charity and the Will Rogers Institute.

Movies start at 10 am every Wednesday at participating theaters. Scheduled movies for the 2010 summer haven't been released yet. Visit AMC Summer MovieCamp for a complete schedule and participating theaters.

Cinemark offers 10 weeks of nearly free movies during the summer. If you purchase all 10 movies in advance, you'll pay only $5. You can also purchase movies separately at the box office for $1.00 per show. Movies vary by location.

For a list of participating theaters and showtimes visit Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse.

Dickinson Theaters has locations in 11 states and offers eight family-friendly films during its Summer Vacation Movie Series. Depending on your location, films are free or cheap ($10 for 8 movies).

Visit Dickinson Theaters and select a theater to see if it's participating in the program and to get show information.

Starting on June 21, Marcus Theatres will offer $2.00 movies for kids every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 10 am. Plus, you can get a free complimentary-size popcorn.

Visit Marcus Theatre's Kids Rule Summer Film Festival for more information.

National Amusements offers discount movies for kids every Saturday and Sunday at 10 am. Tickets are $3.50 per person. Select locations also offer KidToons Storytime following the KidToons movies. Visit National Amusements for complete details.

Harkins Theatres will be offering 10 specially priced movies for kids this summer. If you purchase all 10 movies in advance, you'll pay only $5 total per person, or you can purchase individual movies at the box office for $2 per person. Movies vary by location, but some theaters will offer Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel, Astro Boy and Shrek the Third.

Check out Harkins Summer Movie Fun for showtimes and more details.