Entertainment enthusiasts won’t want to miss the shows before the shows at the McHenry Outdoor Theater Friday, July 29, and Saturday, July 30. 

Not only are a couple of highly anticipated movies scheduled that weekend, but moviegoing early birds also will enjoy an evening of trivia, raffles and prizes on Friday, with mysticism and mind reading on tap for Saturday. A bounce house will be on-site both nights, said Scott Dehn, owner of the outdoor theater at 1510 N. Chapel Hill Road, Lakemoor. Cosplayers may also turn up the fun factor. Gates open about 6:30 p.m.

“The weekend of July 29 and 30 will be especially fun,” Dehn said. “We’ll have ‘Lightyear’ and ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’ And for those who like to arrive early to pick their perfect spot and hang out with us before the show, we will have a little extra in store.”

Friday night’s festivities will be presented by the McHenry Area Rotary, Dehn said. “They’ll be hosting trivia contests with Blues, Brews & BBQ ticket packages as prizes. Winners also will receive Outdoor Theater passes good for a carload on the night of their choosing.” 

Additionally, a portion of all concession sales that night will go to the Rotary to put toward its charitable endeavors, said Dehn, a major sponsor of Blues, Brews & BBQ, coming up Aug. 19-21 at Petersen Park. One or more 50-50 raffles also will take place.

On Saturday, July 30, Joe Diamond will present an all-ages show before the movies begin. Dubbed “America’s Greatest Mind Reader” by the International Psychic Association, the popular entertainer will demonstrate his psychic and mystic prowess. He also plans to reveal the secret behind his mind-blowing subliminal “card-trick” ad that first amazed thousands of moviegoers during its Fourth of July weekend debut, and will continue to wow as it airs on the big screen throughout the season.

Both sets of pre-movie activities will take place near the concession stand, Dehn said. Admission to the McHenry Outdoor is $12 per adult, $6 for military and seniors as well as children ages 3 to 11, and free for those younger than 3. A $12-per-carload special is available on Tuesday nights. Season passes also are available. For details, visit goldenagecinemas.com.