What’s that saying – everything old is new again.
Drive-in theaters are back in style, experiencing a renaissance as one of the few entertainment destinations you can visit outside the home and maintain social distancing.
There are more than 300 open-air theaters in the USA, many of them open since the 1950s, before the advent of multiplex theaters, and some drive-ins are selling out.
The Family Drive-in Theatre, which has been a staple in Stephens City, Va. community since 1956, for example, has reopened with an abundance of caution.
Moviegoers must buy tickets and concessions online, wear face masks outside their vehicles, and maintain a proper social distance from fellow guests and their cars.
Theater management has also limited the two-screen drive-in to half capacity, closed the children’s outdoor playground and covered their movie speakers in protective wrap.
Bathrooms are sanitized by attendants after every use.
“We’ve seen a resurgence in interest across the country. Our shows are selling out every night. It’s the best market I have ever seen in all my years in business,” said Jim Kopp, owner of The Family Drive-in Theatre in Stephens City, Va.
“We’ve heard from a lot of folks that they didn’t even realize drive-in theaters still existed,” he added.
Tips for Getting the Most out of a Drive-in Experience
Volkswagen, which knows a thing or two about cars, has these tips on how to make your first or your next drive-in movie experience a success:
Volkswagen, which knows a thing or two about cars, has these tips on how to make your first or your next drive-in movie experience a success:
Secure tickets in advance:
Most drive-in ticket sales have moved online, so be sure to scope out the best showtimes online and purchase your ticket ahead of the show. “It’s automatic insurance that you’re going to get in,” says Kopp.
Arrive early:
Demand is high, especially during the summer, so Kopp suggests moviegoers arrive at least an hour early to secure a spot near the front of the screen. Also, you’ll get to enjoy a late evening sunset.
If you’re looking to beat the crowds and avoid parking hassles, consider a weekday screening.
Pack toys and games:
After arriving early, you’ll have some time to kill before the film starts. Be sure to pack some light entertainment, such as a book or card game, for you and the kids.
Dress comfortably:
Consider wearing cozy clothes, such as shorts and leggings, and extra layers to stay warm and relaxed.
Kids can wear their pajamas to the show, which makes it easier for parents when putting them to bed after a late screening. Also turns the drive-in experience into a pajama party.
Bring bug repellent and sunscreen:
Most drive-in movie theaters are in or around wooded areas, which means bugs. Unless you enjoy swatting them all night, pack some spray. Sunscreen is another good option for protection from those hot summer rays.
Pack a portable radio and extra batteries:
While The Family Drive-In has speakers located throughout the pavilion, the noise of fellow guests can carry over. and Kopp suggests packing a small AM/FM radio to make sure you capture every bit of dialog.
Many drive-ins broadcast the sound on an FM frequency. Several drive-ins rent radios for those whose modern vehicle no longer has a radio in the dashboard.
Bring pillows and blankets:
One of the biggest perks of drive-ins is sitting outside underneath the stars.
To make the experience cozier, put down the back rows of your parked Atlas or Tiguan and open the trunk towards the screen. Or, pile everybody into the bed of your pick-up truck, also facing the bed towards the screen.
Order from the concession stand:
Drive-ins typically make most of their money from concession stands, no differently than indoor multiplex theaters.
To adjust to current safety measures and to continue keeping revenue fluid, most drive-ins have moved the theater’s concession operations online. Order snacks via an app and pick-up your order at the snack bar. Some drive-ins have brought back the 1950s car hop and will deliver to your vehicle.
Expect to pay a fee to bring in your own food and beverages, which typically ranges from $5-$10, which helps offset the loss of revenue from the concession stand.
Put away your cellphone:
Refrain from any cell phone use during the show. It can be disturbing to guests and distracts from the experience, just as it does if you use your cellphone inside a multiplex movie theater.
Prepare to have a good time:
“Sit down, relax and enjoy the show,” Kopp says.
What do you think? We value your comments and love hearing from you.