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Do you remember when we were kids, and the drive-in movie was the place to be every Saturday night? I scraped and saved to afford my weekly jaunt to the movies to visit my “friends” Jimmy, Doris, and Elvis, and I will never forget just how glamorous the entire evening seemed.
Sadly, in this day and age, drive-in movies are hard to come by (as of this publication, there are less than 300 drive-in theaters remaining in the United States, which is a mere fraction of the 4,000+ in the late 1950s), which means most kids today won’t get to experience the fun of watching a movie from the comfort of your car.
Since each state still has a handful of drive-in theaters remaining, I want to encourage you to take your grandkids to a night at the movies, as it is a fun outing for them and pure nostalgia for us Grandmas. While seeing a movie is fun enough on its own, I wanted to share a few ideas to make this retro outing even more memorable:
1. Get cozy
Remember how we used to pile into the back of Dad’s old truck and snuggle in with tons of blankets and pillows? We can still do that! If you’ve got an SUV or a truck, turn it into a fairytale den by piling in pillows, soft blankets, and maybe even some twinkling fairy lights. If you have tots, don’t forget their favorite teddy!
2. The pre-show is just as important as the movie itself!
Back in the day, we would scamper around playing tag before the film, so why not bring along a ball or a frisbee for the grands (and grandpa, hehe) to play with before the movie begins? If the venue allows, a bit of sidewalk chalk or a deck of cards could be fun, too.
3. Snacks fit for a movie star
Is there anything better than movie theater popcorn? (No – the answer is no.) Make a meal out of popcorn, candy, nachos, and soft pretzels – trust me, the grandkids will be talking about it for years to come.
4. Lights, camera, action
If you know ahead of time which movie(s) you’re seeing, consider making the evening themed around it. Got a superhero flick lined up? Encourage the kids to come dressed as their favorite caped crusaders. I assure you, it’ll be a hoot!
5. Luxury viewing
You don’t want your little ones fidgeting in discomfort, so don’t forget things like insect repellent, blankets, or a portable fan, depending on the weather.
6. Mobile slumber party
Late-night screenings often meant we nodded off during the credits. Getting your grandkids into their PJs before the film means they’re ready for bed when you pull back into the driveway. (Is it just me, or is there something exciting about a movie in your nightwear? Do you think I can get away with it, too?)
7. Say cheese!
A Polaroid camera can add a lovely vintage touch to the night. (I still have mine – do you?) Let the kids take turns capturing memories, and they’ll have tangible keepsakes of this trip back in time.
8. Take in the stars (in the sky, that is)
Since you’re under the night sky, take this special opportunity to explore the stars. A stargazing app or a simple star chart can help you and the kids find constellations, turning the movie night into an astronomical adventure!
9. Scope out a drive-in theater near you
Before you go, be sure to find the drive-in theater closest to you. Drive-In Movie is an excellent resource with an up-to-date list of open theaters near you.
Conclusion
Are you ready for some good, old-fashioned nostalgia? Me, too! I can’t wait to hear about your drive-in movie adventure with your grandkids – be sure to let me know 🙂 and as always, let’s talk again soon!
