Don't forget to join United Arts of Central Florida, Enzian Theater and the City of Winter Park on Friday night, February 8th, for the annual Popcorn Flick kickoff of ArtsFest. This yearly event launches a fundraising and awareness campaign for United Arts by presenting a whole weekend of diverse artistic and cultural offerings at no charge whatsoever--that's right, it's all free! Seating is limited at some of the thearical offerings, but not outside in Winter Park's Central Park for a special screening of the original WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY.

While Tim Burton's recent remake with Johnny Depp had its own perverse and freaky charms, there's something about Mel Stuart's original from 1971 starring Gene Wilder that keeps it a classic for the ages. And what's a showing of WILLY WONKA without a contest to find a golden ticket? Peterbrooke Chocolatier will provide a sweet surprise for the lucky winner. The festivities begin at 5:30 PM with a variety of arts and cultural activities, and the film should start around 7:00. So grab the kids, a blanket, and a well-stocked cooler and start the weekend off right with just a touch of magic.

--Matthew