Date: March 22, 2025
Author: Elliot Park, Brookville Chamber Intern
According to DriveInMovie.com, the US has around 300 Drive-In Movie Theaters left in operation, a significant decline in the once popular activity. In the late 1950’s, Drive-In Movie Theaters hit their peak with roughly 4,000 theaters in operation, seeing a steady decline in the years to follow. Although Pennsylvania has been no exception to the decline of Drive-In theaters, PA has the second most operational theaters in the U.S. with 28 theaters, only trailing New York.
Although experiencing a heavy decline in interest, there are several advantages or in better words benefits of going to a Drive-In Theater compared to going to an indoor theater. First, it tends to be cheaper to attend a Drive-In, especially as a bigger family or group. The well-known carload method of admission into Drive-In theaters provides a much needed reduction in tickets, especially compared to the expensive, individually based tickets at indoor theaters. Drive-In theaters can also provide a more relaxed atmosphere and be more comfortable for patrons. Being in the comfort of your car or other seating arrangements (like lawn chairs), allows you to have space and not be on top of each other like the seating arrangements provided at an indoor theater. This also allows individuals to be able to talk (to an extent) and crack a few jokes or quote different characters throughout their experience, as long as you are not annoying the people in your car. With that in mind, there are several notable Drive-In Theaters left in PA, and one just happens to be in our community.
Located just a short drive down US Route 322, west of Brookville, sits the Moonlite Drive-In Theatre, a local gem entering its 73rd year of operation. Although Moonlite lets you experience the thrill of such a classic activity, they have made numerous modifications and improvements over the years to best serve their customers and attract customers. One of the newer modifications, which expanded the theatre’s capabilities, was the addition of a second viewing screen. This not only allows the theater to perform more shows and additional movies, but also adds them to a short list of theaters with this capability. Over the years Moonlite has also developed quite the snack bar. They have everything from burgers & pizza to Swedish Fish & cotton candy, oh and don’t forget about ice cream! They also have a wide selection of drinks having various sodas, water, hot chocolate and coffee, and even Tum-e Yummies for the kiddos (the snack bar menu is subject to change). It does not end there; Moonlite’s dedication to deliver what customers want allows them to have a rotating showing schedule highlighting various movies. Showing every type of movie from old-school greats to new, up and coming movies, while also coordinating with events and holidays, Moonlite Drive-In delivers an experience like no other for everyone in the family.
As a business in such a declining industry with declining interest, the Moonlite Drive-In relies heavily among folks in the community and visitors alike, to make their business successful. The support of the concession stand (snack bar) is vital to their success as a whole, making it an imperative to follow the prohibition of outside food and drink. Plus, they have great food and plenty of snack and drink options, so give it a try for yourself and support this local, small business. The 2025 season is just around the corner with plans to kick off around mid-April, giving the parking area enough time to dry out. Admission into the theater costs $20, which allows entry for a carload (up to six individuals), with an additional $10 person person exceeding that amount. The Moonlite Drive-In Theatre is excited for another season bringing a movie packed summer for a successful year in 2025. They welcome everyone to come see a movie (or two), enjoy the experience, and have an unforgettable night with family and friends. Stay up to date with the Moonlite Drive-In Theatre and their showings on Facebook @Moonlite Drive-In Theatre and their website www.lipumatheatres.com.
Sources:
DriveInMovie.com. (n.d.). Welcome to DriveInMovie.com. https://driveinmovie.com/
Kluesner, S. (2021, March 16). Top 5: Reasons WHy Drive-In Theaters Are Superior. Truman Media Network. https://tmn.truman.edu/blog/features/entertainment/top-5-reasons-why-drive-in-theaters-are-superior/
Moonlite All American Drive-In Theatre. (n.d.). The Moonlite Drive-In Theatre. Lipuma Theatres. https://www.lipumatheatres.com/index.php
Schweigert, K. (2024, May 13). There are 3 drive-in theaters still operating in Central PA; here’s how to find them for a fun night under the stars. FOX43. https://www.fox43.com/article/entertainment/movies/central-pennsylvania-drive-in-movie-theater-summer-fun-guide/521-4899a656-08bd-48de-bc80-0da90d881c7a
