Increasingly, drive-ins are becoming relics of a bygone era, evoking thoughts of jukeboxes, ice cream floats and roller skates. There are so few operating theatres left that it’s newsworthy when one goes out of business. Such was the case with the Odeon Drive-In, the last outdoor theatre in Winnipeg. The theatre’s parent company, Cineplex Entertainment, had been discussing the closure for years, but community activists worked to keep it alive. Unfortunately, in the end, it wasn’t enough and Cineplex announced in April that the 40-year-old theatre would close. Not to worry, though, there are still a few drive-ins left standing, stubbornly holding on to the past.
Stardust Drive-In, Morden, Man.
Over the years, the number of operating drive-ins in Manitoba has dwindled to only three. The current owners of the Stardust, the Freund family, grew up next door to the theatre. When the previous owners decided to sell the property, the Freunds jumped at the chance to take it over. The theatre also hosts community events such as swap meets and youth-group nights to help supplement revenues. If watching movies under the stars isn’t enough of a draw, the concession-stand menu includes tempting treats such as Pizza Pops. 3020 Thornhill Street.
The 5 Drive-In, Oakville, Ont.
The 5 Drive-In boasts three screens, one of which is nearly the size of an IMAX screen. This theatre really gives you more movie-fun for your money with $5-admission nights, plus four features showing from dawn until dusk on holiday and bonus weekends. The 5 Drive-In also features an outdoor barbecue pit, which serves corn on the cob, back bacon on a bun and steak sandwiches. 2332 9th Line.
Drive-in Movie Theatre at Polson Pier, Toronto, Ont.
Toronto’s sole drive-in is on Polson Pier and is billed as North America’s only downtown drive-in theatre. There’s nothing especially vintage or kitschy about these urban outdoor screens— the theatre is part of a huge complex that also includes a driving range, mini-putt, a pool and a state-of-the-art indoor soccer facility. 11 Polson Street.
Valley Drive-In, Cambridge, N.S.
The Valley was very nearly a casualty of the times when its lease wasn’t renewed and it was closed. The local Lions Club, however, stepped in to save the day. After just one season, the Lions Club had been paid back in full from the proceeds taken in by the theatre. Today, a portion of the Valley’s profits goes to benefit the community. Off Highway 101 towards Berwick.
Brackley Drive-In Theatre, Brackley Beach, P.E.I.
This theatre originally opened as The Parkview in the 1950s, back when drive-ins (and Brylcreem) were all the rage. In 1992, new owners renamed the theatre and restored it to its former glory, including a five-storey-high screen, a vintage Coca-Cola machine, a jukebox and, best of all, pinball machines. For a real trip back in time, check out the 1950s Morris Miner car parked in the canteen. 3164 Brackley Point Road.
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