Walmart launching virtual summer camp, drive-in movies for summer fun

With many summer activities stalled or canceled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, Bentonville, Ark.-based retail giant Walmart has announced two new experiences to help bring families together for traditional fun in nontraditional ways.

The first, Camp by Walmart, is a free star-studded virtual camp that brings summer activities directly to customers’ own backyards, and the second, in partnership with Tribeca Enterprises, is a touring drive-in movie theater that will transform Walmart parking lots into outdoor cinemas.

“Summer hasn’t really felt like summer yet, and I know I hear every day, ‘Mom, I’m bored!’” said Janey Whiteside, chief customer officer, Walmart. “Through our digital means and vast footprint of stores, we’re hoping to bring some summer fun to families across the country. We know Walmart plays a role in our communities that extends far beyond getting them necessary supplies, and we see that now more than ever.”

Walmart is teaming up with celebrities Drew Barrymore, Neil Patrick Harris, LeBron James, Idina Menzel and Todd Oldham to creat a new summer camp experience designed for the internet. Camp by Walmart is being produced and developed in partnership with CAMP, a Family Experience Company, and powered by the interactive video platform eko. Each of the celebrities is stepping outside of their day job to serve as camp counselors, leading kids through sessions varying from arts and crafts to fitness and other activities to keep them active and entertained.