Drive-In Movie Theatre
By Etelvina Castillo
The wait is over for Bakersfield residents. After many years of speculation and hard work, a drive-in movie theatre will officially be open to the public Saturday, April 16.
Cinertain is the cinema and entertainment company behind it all. Drive-in theaters were very popular in the 50’s, but since 1958, over 3,500 drive-ins have been closed down. In Bakersfield in the past there were more than two drive-ins, but unfortunately, they closed down. One of the drive-ins was the 99 Drive-in which opened in 1949 and closed down in 1982. Another drive-in which most people recall was the Crest Drive-in which opened in 1963 and closed down in 1999.
Now that Bakersfield is bringing back the drive-in, the question is if people will be interested in going. Will millennials, the new generation be interested in going to a drive-in theatre as opposed to a regular movie theatre?
This is what some people had to say about the drive-in:
Ana Morales said, “I have been to a drive-in before. I think they are nice and better than a closed room. I’ve gone to the one in Sacramento, West Wind. I really liked it, they showed new movies and classics on Wednesdays. I am interested in seeing how the drive-in will be like here in Bakersfield.”
Carmen Benavidez said, “My parents have told me stories about the drive-in theaters they would go to when they were young and it makes me want to go at least once but I think I would still prefer a normal movie theatre over a drive-in especially because Bakersfield’s weather is crazy sometimes.”
The drive-in is located at the Sam Lynn Ballpark. Gates will open at 6:00 PM, and the cost will be $20 per carload parking pass and there will also be walk-in space available. Snacks will be available at the concession trailer for people to enjoy. For more information regarding the drive-in go to www.cinertain.com .
Cinertain has brought back the classic cinematic experience to Bakersfield, will you live the experience?
Location of new drive-in
Open lot will become drive-in