By Michael Wentz
The 8th Annual Farmingville Flicks wrapped up last month, bringing families and friends together for three summer nights of free outdoor movies. Presented by the Sachem Public Library, Local Church, and the Farmingville Hills Chamber of Commerce, the event took place over three Mondays in July, featuring Moana 2, Sonic 3, and Inside Out 2.
Hundreds of local residents turned out each week to enjoy free popcorn, great company, and blockbuster films under the stars. This year’s event broke previous attendance records, continuing a tradition that began in 2018 as a partnership between the Sachem Public Library and the Farmingville Hills Chamber of Commerce.
In its early years, the event rotated between three different locations before finding a permanent home in 2023 in the parking lot of Local Church, located at 1070 Portion Road in Farmingville.
“We are very happy that Emily and Michael, pastors at the Local Church, opened their ‘doors’ to us. This venue has proven ideal for the community,” said Michael Wentz, president of the Farmingville Hills Chamber of Commerce.
Chamber members Jolly Jeff Ice Cream and The Braided Bun food truck were also on hand, offering delicious food and treats for purchase. Volunteers from Local Church, the Sachem Public Library, and the Chamber of Commerce provided giveaways, assisted with setup, and ensured that residents from Farmingville and surrounding areas had a great time.
Emily Liebler, pastor at Local Church, shared her enthusiasm for the event’s growing impact.
“It is such a joy to see our parking lot transform into a place where the community gathers to laugh, connect, and enjoy a movie together,” Liebler said. “Farmingville Flicks has become more than just a movie night—it’s a celebration of what makes this community special.”
“We love partnering with the Chamber and the Library because it brings so many people from all walks of life together in one welcoming space.”
Neely McCahey, director of the Sachem Public Library, spoke about the Library’s role in fostering community connections.
“The Library has always been about bringing people together, and Farmingville Flicks is a perfect example of that mission in action,” McCahey said. “It’s a summer tradition we look forward to every year.”
“Seeing so many smiling faces reminds us how important it is to create opportunities for neighbors to connect beyond the walls of the library.”
Tom Lohr, Recording Secretary of the Farmingville Hills Chamber of Commerce and Chair for Farmingville Flicks, reflected on the event’s success.
“This year’s record-breaking attendance shows just how much our community values this tradition,” Lohr said. “It takes a team effort—from our sponsors to our volunteers—to make this event possible, and I am proud to be part of it.”
“Each year, we look for ways to make Farmingville Flicks even more engaging, and judging by the turnout, we’re on the right track.”