Enjoy free screenings under the stars on four consecutive Friday nights at the Kansas History Museum & Library in Topeka.

This year's films feature themes related to the 2008 special exhibit, Forces of Nature, opening March 21st.

Movies are projected on a wall at the west end of the grassy plaza at the Kansas History Museum & Library (driving directions) beginning at sundown. Refreshments are sold to help offset the cost of the film series.

Mark these dates on your 2008 calendar:

Starring Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, and a tornado. We couldn't screen films on Kansas weather without showing this classic. A storm transports farm girl Dorothy Gale from Kansas to the mysterious and wonderful Land of Oz. Will the Wizard help her get home again? Rated G.

Starring Burt Lancaster, Dean Martin, and a Boeing 747 made in Kansas. A ferocious blizzard threatens the safety of airplane passengers in this granddaddy of disaster flicks. Airport features a star-studded cast and exciting action, plus a great sense of humor. Rated PG.

Starring Ryan O'Neal, Tatum O'Neal, and drought. A traveling salesman is saddled with an orphaned girl, who accompanies him on travels through Depression-era Kansas. She suspects he's both a scam artist and her father. A hilarious film, with many scenes filmed in Kansas. Rated PG.

Starring Bill Paxton, Helen Hunt, and a whole lot of tornadoes. We whetted your appetite with The Wizard of Oz; this film takes tornadoes to a higher level. A team of storm-chasing scientists seeks to understand twisters by getting as close to them as possible. Rated PG-13.

Tips for enjoying the Sundown Film Festival:

• Bring your blankets and/or lawn chairs.
• Come early, because the plaza fills up fast! Set up on the grass, then stroll over to the museum to see the Forces of Nature exhibit for free from 5 to 9 p.m.
• The movie starts at sundown, usually around 9:00 p.m.
• Bug spray is always a good idea on a muggy summer night.
• The concession stand closes about 30 minutes into the film. Support the festival by buying concessions and/or making donations!
• In case of rain, the event will be moved inside where the movie will be projected onto a wall in the museum lobby.