The Panida Theater, Sandpoint, ID
Date/Time: Sunday, February 25 at 2:30 p.m.
Movie selection: Cool Runnings
Doors open at 1:30 p.m. after the Sandpoint Winter Carnival K-9 Keg Pull.

For decades, historic movie houses across Eastern Washington and North Idaho have served as welcoming places where neighbors, families and friends can come together to experience art and entertainment.

During the month of February, Innovia Foundation is shining a spotlight on some of these beloved historic theaters by offering free screenings of family-friendly films. The free movies are part of a series of events and activities Innovia is gifting to communities across Eastern Washington and North Idaho in celebration of the Foundation’s 50th anniversary in 2024.

“Community is the heart and soul of Innovia Foundation,” says Shelly O’Quinn, CEO of Innovia Foundation. “Our celebration of historic theaters this month underscores the importance of a vibrant arts and culture network throughout the region and especially in rural communities.”

Steeped in nostalgia, the featured theaters in February include The Roxy Theater in Newport, the Panida in Sandpoint, the Ritz in Ritzville, the Liberty Theater in Dayton, the Empire Theatre in Tekoa and the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre in Moscow, ID. Additional locations and details will be added throughout the month.

"Historic theaters bring tremendous value to communities as places where people can come together in their shared love for movies and live arts,” says Colin Mannex, Executive Director of the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre. “When people attend a show at a landmark cinema, they get an opportunity to participate in something special. These old venues provide important spaces to reinforce community ties. They create a sense of local pride and connection that comes with shared cultural history and stewardship across generations.”

Innovia is proud to invest in rural communities across Eastern Washington and North Idaho by sponsoring free community experiences at some of the region’s most iconic movie theaters. Entry is free and open to all at each venue.