Even though the first part of the week felt more like winter than spring, the Mariposa County Parks and Recreation Department has big plans for the new season. While some things are already happening, May 22 will mark an unofficial kick-off to the summer season.

That night, the department will host a free movie night in the Mariposa Town Park. Its new giant movie screen makes its debut, screening “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian.” The movie will begin around 8:30 p.m.

There is plenty to do before the movie starts, though. Free swimming, family games and concessions begin at 5 p.m. There will be a raffle with prizes like water park and zoo tickets. Tickets are being pre-sold now and can be obtained by calling 966-2498.

The department had a similar night last summer, and it was a huge success, drawing hundreds of people to the park with their families. That was kind of a trial run and it proved to parks officials that the purchase of the screen was worth it.

“I’m excited about this,” Parks and Recreation Manager Shannon Hansen said. She said plans are in place to screen three movies throughout the summer. “It’s a great venue for families to come out and enjoy each other, their neighbors and a good movie at little or no cost.”

It’s full speed ahead for other parks programs, too. The department is taking registration for its popular day camp program for children 7 to 12-years-old. The program runs from June 14 to Aug. 13 from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The cost is $7 per day, per camper. Kids participate in camp activities from 9 a.m. to noon, then swim from 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Swim lessons begin June 7. There will be four sessions through the summer at a number of ability levels. Early registration for all classes will be held May 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the town pool. The fee is $15 per student, per session, which last two weeks, Monday through Thursday.

The pool is a balmy 75 degrees already, and adult swim and fitness classes are already underway. Lap swim takes place Monday through Friday from noon to 12:45 p.m. Aqua fitness classes are Monday through Thursday from 5 to 6 p.m. and beginning May 17, also from 7 to 8 p.m.

For information on any of the abovementioned programs, call Parks and Recreation at 966-2498.