Vote to Save Your Local Drive-In

2013/09/09 20:00:50 +00:00 | Jonathan James

*Updated: Voting Ends Today* At this time, there are less than 400 drive-in theaters located in the US and that number is dropping regularly. With the push to digital projection, that number could take a dive very soon. Many drive-in theaters across the country are faced with a difficult financial situation, as studios are requiring digital projectors for the latest movies.

If you're interested in supporting your local drive-in, we have details on a recently launched "Project Drive-In" that will provide provide five digital projectors to drive-in theaters in need:

"In less than 3 months, the majority of American drive-in theaters will face closure with the movie industry’s switch from film to digital. Upgrading to digital projection costs roughly $80,000.

We want to preserve this iconic part of American car culture. So we’re taking the first step by starting a drive-in fund and donating 5 digital projectors. Your vote decides where they go."

All you have to do is visit the official voting site set up by Honda and you can vote multiple times per day. There are also multiple ways you can vote.  Specifically, we wanted to bring attention to two drive-in theaters that have always supported classic horror.

The first is the Midway Drive-In that's responsible for Flashback Weekend in Chicago:

"The Midway Drive-In, located between Dixon and Sterling Illinois, opened in August 1950 and features classic mid 20th century architecture surrounded by a beautiful nature setting. From the retro “spaceship” ticket booth, to the children’s playground, a trip to the Midway is like entering a time capsule to the 1950’s. The Midway Drive-in is a labor of love family-owned small business.  We are dedicated to preserving the institution of the American Drive-In. The Midway is a beloved part of the community which features first run films, classic films, and community-oriented events including celebrity guest appearances and oldies concerts."

The second is the Riverside Drive-In that's responsible for Drive-In Super Monster Rama:

"The Riverside Drive In Theater is part of this 40% and faces the biggest challenge of its 8 year history. The theater must go digital or go dark. Since the Drive In opened we have had a growing attendance of "faithful" followers. We have done many events for our local scouts and church groups. We host a Special Event now twice a year, April Ghouls Monster-Rama and Super Drive In Monster-Rama. These events bring many folks from all over the world!! These events as well as many community events with the local Scouts and Church groups are only some of the things we do at the Riverside Drive In Theater.Thank you!"