You’re invited to spend the evening watching a free film under the stars at Lake Cathie and Port Macquarie.

The screenings start about 8.30pm and you will need to BYO chair, picnic rug and refreshments.

And if you're keen to get among the fun, get there early to make the most of the three-hour "summer session". It's a range of free family-friendly activities such as a totem tennis tournament, giant chess, giant jenga and giant checkers.

It starts at 5.30pm and Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s "placemaking team" are the organisers.

On Friday, January 23, you can catch the Aussie family film Red Dog at Lake Cathie Reserve, Lake Cathie. 

It is based on the legendary true story of the Red Dog who united a disparate local community while roaming the Australian outback in search of his long lost master. It stars Rachael Taylor and Josh Lucas.

And on Australia Day you can wrap up your celebrations at the Town Green in Port Macquarie with the M-rated Aussie film Backyard Ashes.

Dougie Waters loves nothing more than a weekend barbie and cricket match with his mates. But his paradise on earth is destroyed when his best mate and neighbour Norm is forced to leave town and their new boss, a pompous English administrator called Edward Lords, moves in.

It stars Sarah Burnell, Damian Callinan and Chris Coleman.

For more information, please go to www.pmhc.nsw.gov.au/moonlightmovies