As the May long weekend approaches so does opening night for the drive-in movie theatre at Manitou Beach.
The drive-in will begin season 66 on Thursday night.
Manager Earl Hayhurst told northeastNOW visitors can expect a mix of new and retro movies this season.
“There are some kind of big movies coming so we will play what we can. If we have to stick with the retro stuff we will do that,” Hayhurst said.
There are limited options when it comes to new movies for now since it has also been a challenge for film producers to get new movies out due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Drive-in theatres were able to open last season with reduced capacity to abide by public health guidelines.
“It is looking like we can have our full capacity of 125 vehicles as long as people social distance, wear their masks, and sanitize as needed,” Hayhurst said.
The drive-in had a later start last year before getting the green light from the provincial government as well as fixing some technical issues.
The original Shrek movie will be shown on opening night and is free of charge.
“Shrek is actually celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, so I thought that would be a cool way to kick it off,” Hayhurst said.
Happy Gilmore is scheduled for Friday night. On Saturday night, there is a Bon Jovi concert from Encore. Mamma Mia will play on Sunday. Tickets for the Bon Jovi show must be purchased in advance.
The week two line-up has been announced as well. Friday to Sunday will see Fast and Furious, a double feature on Saturday of Jim Carrey’s Liar Liar and American Pie, and Eminem’s Eight Mile.
“I figured we would run the Fast and Furious because I do have the new one coming in June which is number nine,” Hayhurst said.
The drive-in will host a few events this year as well as the movie showings.
On May 27, the Watrous School of Dance will have their annual dance recital and graduation take place on June 4.
“The grad was out here last year as well but it wasn’t until September,” Hayhurst said. “They did it live but the parents and grandparents just have to stay in their cars.”
There is also a flea market on site every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., starting on May 23.
The concession will be open with some new additions from Simpson snacks, Crop Hopper Honey and Meat Chops for You.
“We wanted to add some local flavour rather than just your usual Coke and Pepsi,” Hayhurst said.
The drive-in is located on Highway 365 at the top of the hill beside the Manitou Regional Park and across the road from the golf course.
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angie.rolheiser@pattisonmedia.com
On Twitter: @Angie_Rolheiser
