Originally posted on FathersofMultiples.com
Imax.
Dolby Digital.
3D.
Are these really better than “Open Air,” “Double Features,” and “Freaking Gigantic Screen”?
Who’s to say? We CAN say that there’s no replacing the nostalgic feeling of a real drive-in for pure fun.
What a drive-in doesn’t have in regards to the latest in sound technology, they more than make up for with atmosphere. Get there a little early, and it’s like you’re tailgating! Instead of tailgating for a game, you’re doing it for a movie. People tend to go to the drive-in to have fun and relax. Everyone’s in a good mood…everyone is conversing, and interacting with one another…happily! There’s no rush, no hustle and bustle. Just peaceful relaxation and good times.
Drive-ins usually have playgrounds for the kiddos and grills to get some good eats. You can also bring in your own food and drinks, even have a picnic! Heck, you can bring your lawn chairs, blankets, the whole nine.
Did we mention the size of that screen? This is one time when size definitely matters! The screens are so much bigger than anything in a multiplex. Bigger than life. Some movies beg to be seen BIG, and the drive-in is the best place to do that.
I’ve got a great tip for you! When we weren’t sure my twins were old enough to sit through a movie in a movie theater, we took them to their very first movie…at a drive-in! That way, if they cried too much, we could move our movie viewing into the confines of our own car, leaving everyone else in peace. Luckily, 2012’s The Avengers did not cause the first tear in either of my sons, so we stayed out on our blanket enjoying the early summer breeze for the entire movie. The double feature, though? Nah, they were tuckered out. They went to sleep in their car seats, while the wife and I sat in the front seat and enjoyed our second movie!
Here are some more things to consider bringing when celebrating National Drive-In Movie Day
A portable radio that runs off of batteries – this way you won’t have to use your car battery as most drive-ins no longer offer the individual car speakers.
Lots of blankets and pillows to build a comfy “bed” in the back of your vehicle.
Folding chairs if you don’t have trunk space or prefer chairs.
Warmer clothes to bundle up in as it gets cooler as the night goes on.
Cooler of beverages (first check with the drive-in to make sure this is allowed).
Snacks and/or dinner for during the show (again, check with the drive-in to make sure this is allowed).
Cash. Some drive-ins are older and may only take cash.
June 6th is National Drive-in Movie Day, so find out if there’s a drive-in anywhere near you and make some family memories. A drive-in seems to hearken back to a simpler time. A throwback to older, more peaceful days. You feel as if Andy Griffith may have taken Opie to the same drive-in you’re at. (I’ve actually been to the drive-in in Mount Airy, NC – the town Mayberry was based on, so anything is possible!) A trip to a drive-in feels traditional in every good way possible.
Start a new tradition with your own kids and find a drive-in near you to celebrate National Drive-in Movie Day. You’ll be glad you did!
Find a drive-in theater near you!
Check out some of our movie recommendations.