Celebrate Drive-In Movie Day!

'Sandy! You can't just walk out of a drive-in!' -John Travolta, Grease

Today, June 6, marks the anniversary of the drive- in movie theater. The first was built in Camden, NJ in 1933. Within fifteen years of its creation, the new idea spread and more drive-ins were built across the country; reaching 5,000 locations by the late 1950s. Now, less than 500 remain in the US.

Why are drive-in movies better than movie theaters?

1. You can bring whatever food/ drinks (sans alcohol) you want- no need for the large shopping bag hiding your McDonald's.

2. You don't have to worry about being too loud or people getting mad at you for crying your eyes out when the hero's father dies.

3. You can use you cellphone as much as you want to give your absentee friends a play-by-play of the movie without getting heckled.

4. You are sure to have your own armrest, no awkward fights over a measly 3 inches with a stranger necessary.

5. Most are dog-friendly, no need to deprive your pets from the big screen movie experience.

6. If you bring your kids along and they aren't too interested in the movie, most drive-ins have a playground...or you can leave them in the car and sit outside in peace.

7. You have complete control over the temperature in your car...no need to be forced to shiver throughout some cheesy vampire movie.

8. Have nervous legs that have you jumping up every half hour or so? At drive-ins there is no awkward shuffle as you trip over legs and dodge angry flying popcorn to get out.

9. Drive-ins provide a more intimate movie-watching experience...snuggle up and enjoy the show!

10. They are just cooler...enough said.

Fact: There are only nine drive-ins still standing in Virginia. If you are currently in the Northern Virginia area, the closest drive-in movie theater is The Family Drive-In Theater located in Stephens City, VA. On June 14th, they will be celebrating their 55th anniversary!

Admission (for two movies)

Adults: 7.50 (12 and up)

Child: 3.50 (3 to 11)

Under 3 is free

The Family Drive-In Theater

5890 Valley Pike (US Route 11)

Stephens City, VA 22655

Movie line: 540.665.6982

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