The Current State of Drive-In Theaters: How Many are Left in the World?

The COVID-19 pandemic has made drive-in theaters once again popular. People have resorted to the classic movie experience of seeing movies in the comfort of their cars as a result of the closing of indoor theaters. How many drive-in cinemas are left in the globe, though, given the growth of streaming services and the loss of conventional movie theaters?

By 2021, there will only be 305 drive-in theaters left worldwide, according to the United Drive-In Theatre Owners Association. In comparison to the 4,000 drive-ins that were present at their zenith in the 1950s, this number has substantially fallen. There are still a small number of drive-ins in other nations like Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, although the bulk are concentrated in the United States.

As of 2021, there were roughly 305 drive-in cinemas open in the United States. This number is less than it was in the 1950s, when there were over 4,000 drive-ins spread out across the nation. The revived interest in outdoor movie experiences has, however, caused the decline of drive-in theaters to halt pace recently. In fact, during the epidemic, some drive-ins reported record-breaking attendance.

Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theatre in Orefield, Pennsylvania, is the oldest continuously functioning drive-in theater. Since its debut in 1934, it has been running continuously. Although the theater has undergone significant renovations over the years, it nevertheless has its vintage appeal and is a well-liked hangout for families and movie buffs.

Drive-ins are still present and continue to be a distinctive and nostalgic way to see movies, despite the reduction in attendance. They provide a sense of belonging and a respite from our increasingly digital environment. Many drive-ins now provide digital projection, online ticket sales, and even live events as part of their modernization efforts. Drive-ins’ allure has also been brought to light by the pandemic, and it’s feasible that their popularity may grow again in the future.

With only 305 remaining in operation, there are very few drive-in theaters left in the globe. The bulk of these theaters are located in the United States, but a small number are also found in other nations. The oldest continuously running drive-in in the world is Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theatre in Pennsylvania. Drive-ins are still a beloved and distinctive method to see movies, despite a drop in attendance, and their popularity may increase in the future.