Huskies can explore downtown, take in a musical performance and even watch a movie on the big screen all for free Thursday.

Huskies SEE DeKalb is a welcome event for new students and members of the community aimed to showcase what DeKalb has to offer for shopping, eating and enjoyment in the downtown area.

“We want to get as many Huskies as we can downtown,” said Debbie Armstrong, executive director of DeKalb Area Convention and Business Bureau.

“We thought it would be a fun way for everyone to come down and explore the area.”

Starting at 3 p.m., citizens can head to the Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. Second St., to register for the self-guided tour of downtown.

Those participating will receive welcome bags, maps, visitor guides, a scavenger hunt and the chance to win prizes.

“There’s unique things downtown,” Armstrong said.

“Unless you go explore them on your own, you don’t see these things.”

Additionally, at 4 p.m. in Palmer Court, NIU’s Steelband will perform an hour-long set.

The Steelband was selected because Armstrong hopes to spread the word about the internationally acclaimed group.

“We will try and do a mix of calypso, funk and some ballad to show our versatility,” said Liam Teague, co-director of the band.

To close the event, the Academy Award-winning 2008 film “The Dark Knight” will be screened at 8 p.m. at the Egyptian Theatre.

With 1,419 seats available, the historic Egyptian boasts the largest movie screen in DeKalb County, said operations manager Alex Nerad.

“It’s a free movie in an incredible theater, and it’s a great movie,” Nerad said. “It’s a great way to welcome NIU students back and let them know about the events here throughout the year.”

Sponsored by the NIU Alumni Association, Armstrong said movies were submitted that students would enjoy in the Egyptian’s setting and “The Dark Knight” was ultimately chosen.

The movie is free for all to attend, and complimentary cupcakes from Sweet Dreams Desserts will be handed out an hour prior to show time.