Local residents can load chairs into their cars Friday and head to Lawrence Village Plaza for some outdoor fun.

For the first time, the Shenango Township plaza merchants are sponsoring a car cruise and outdoor movie to kick off the summer.

The cruise will last from 5 to 9 p.m. in the center area of the plaza, according to Joe Saad, owner of the Pizza Joe’s restaurant in the plaza.

He and other members of the Lawrence Village Merchants Association came up with the idea through monthly meetings and brainstorming.

“All cars are welcome for the car cruise,” Saad said, adding he has been in touch with a local organization, Gear Busters, which is planning to take classic cars to the event.

A 10-foot-square screen will be set up for the movie, “Mall Cop,” a comedy starring Kevin James from the “The King of Queens” television sitcom.

The movie will start at 9 p.m., and those attending are encouraged to take blankets and/or lawn chairs. A video company will operate the movie equipment and sound system.

Local non-profit organizations have been invited to set up bake sale or other stands, one of which will sell popcorn, Saad said.

Sidewalk sale tables also will be out for shoppers to find bargains.

According to Saad, a rain date has not been set, but if there is rain, the event will be rescheduled.