drive-in movies

by Tyler Hays | Reporter

With movie theaters slow to reopen due to the COVID-19 pandemic, drive-in movies created an alternative for a fun and affordable night out.

There is less risk at a drive-in movie because people are spread out on blankets while watching the movie and in individual cars listening on the radio. There is more freedom at drive-in movies, as well.

Linda Salyer is a Guthrie resident and has been consistently going to drive-in movies for almost 50 years.

“My favorite part of the drive-in experience is watching the movie outdoors under the stars,” Salyer said. “It is better than going to the regular theaters because it is outside, and you can talk to family and friends. The kids can run around and play before the start of the movie also.”

The Winchester Drive-In Theater is the last drive-in in Oklahoma City. It has been a favorite location amongst Oklahomans since 1968 and is located at 6930 S. Western Ave. in OKC.

Jeff Massad is an operator and manager at the Winchester.

“The employees at the Winchester can’t thank the city enough for its continued support,” Massad said. “We are humbled by the support, love and affection given to the Winchester over the years and still today.”

The Winchester is showing one movie a night as a safety precaution as opposed to two.

Movies usually start just after sunset so movies will be starting earlier in the fall and winter. Visit www.winchesterdrivein.com, and follow Winchester Drive-In Theater on Facebook and wichester.drivein on Instagram for updates on the latest movies and showtimes.

Other drive-in theaters in the Oklahoma City metro area are Beacon Drive-In located in Guthrie and Chief Drive-In located in Chickasha.

Visit www.beacondrive-in.com for upcoming dates and movies and follow www.chiefdriveintheatre.com for showtimes, dates and rules.

Both the Beacon and Chief drive-ins are also taking the COVID-19 precautions seriously. Attendees are required to wear a mask when going to the concessions. Safety is the top priority.

As new movies start to be released, the drive-ins will have newer options to screen as well as fun classics for everyone to enjoy.

Do not miss a fun opportunity to enjoy a safe night out at the movies while supporting the local drive-ins.