Join us at the 5 Drive-In theatre Oakville, Friday March 2, 2012. For the drive-in’s 50th anniversary and our 2012 season opening weekend.
The drive-in theater, that uniquely American institution which turned 80 this summer, is experiencing an unexpected renaissance. After decades of closures, about 100 drive-ins have opened or reopened since the mid-’90s. 5 Drive-in has been offering movie magic, under the stars for 50 years.
As of 2011, a figure of 371 drive-ins has been published for the United States. Statistics Canada figures released recently for 2004/2005 clearly show the 58 recorded Canadian drive-in theatres, with a total of 91 screens, are on the rebound, with a 20.4% increase in attendance (1.8 million) “halting eight consecutive years of decline.” Almost half those Canadian drive-in theatres are in Ontario.
5 Drive-In has been a special spot for many families and friends for many years now, and everyone at Premier theatres would like to take a moment and say a very special thank you to all the 5 Drive-In supporters.
50 years later 5 Drive-in has given a new meaning to drive-in theatres. Offering a reasonable admission and snack bar prices, improved film quality, a wider choice of current movies and short-range stereo FM radio sound for the surge in attendance at drive-ins. Special carload rates on selected dates, an annual pajama party night, Saturday/Sunday night triple bills, and dusk-to-dawn movies on long weekend.
5 Drive-In theatre wouldn’t be here without all of our loyal fans, “In terms of their support and encouragement, I can’t tell you how many people come up and thank us for keeping the 5 drive-in theatre up and runnning. It is remarkable.” We try to stay true to the drive-in experience that many people remember from the 50’s and 60’s. Nostalgia has a way of glossing over things. The drive-in elders remember the Dancing Hot Dog but forget the “crappy sound, poor picture quality and dreadful movies” that went with the early drive-in experience.
The Great Drive-In movie-goers are surviving the test of time thanks to the passionate owners that will continue to improve the experience through many technological and social advancements. Our Patrons is the driving force of keeping these relics of a gone by era alive and we thank all for the continuous support. Watching movies at the 5 Drive-in is truly an unique experience.
“Passion pit” reputation aside, books on the history of drive-in theatres tell of some wildly innovative experiences along the way. Most drive-ins are showing their age, but dedicated owners like the Allen Family (Premier Theatres) and second and third generations of faithful moviegoers are keeping the outdoor movie experience alive. So join us on March 2nd at the season opening and remembering 50 years at the 5 Drive-in. Movies are always bigger and better under the stars. See you there, and Happy movie watching under the stars 🙂
With Love,
Premiere Theatres – 5 DRIVE-IN OAKVILLE
Here is a selection of photos that our great friends have captured at 5 Drive-In:
To view show-times, for the opening week at the 5, please click here.