But some stalwarts survived the turn of the century, and are still screening films today.Īccording to the United Drive-In Theatre Owners Association, as of October 2019, there were 305 theater locations in the United States and 549 total screens. Many theaters, Kilgore explains, folded as a result of their aging owners-managers cashing out and their land being sold for development. Their popularity peaked in the 1950s and 1960s, but by the 1970s, interest in drive-ins waned as cable TV, VCRs and video store rentals were on the rise. Following World War II, the growth in car ownership and suburban living added to the appeal of drive-in theaters as a family-friendly outing. While the concept of showing movies outdoors goes back to silent films, the first patented drive-in movie theater was opened on June 6, 1933, in Camden, New Jersey. Again, theaters have been among the closed public buildings, leaving movie-goers wondering, where is the nearest drive-in? Now 20 years into the next century, COVID-19 has brought about similar public health precautions. “In the 1950s, when theaters closed, drive-ins were still available and people were trying to avoid congregating in much of the same way,” says Michael Kilgore, creator of Carload, a website on American drive-in movie theaters. Yet one source of entertainment remained open during summer months-the drive-in movie theater. Additional precautions involved shutting down public venues such as pools and movie theaters. Travel and commerce ceased between strongly impacted cities, and fearful parents kept their children indoors to prevent the spread of this paralyzing disease. Prior to Jonas Salk’s 1955 vaccine, outbreaks led to public health officials imposing quarantine restrictions across the country. Once the renovation is complete, the Van Buren Drive-In Theatre will be able to accommodate 700 cars and will feature state-of-the art digital projection and sound equipment.Over 70 years ago, the polio pandemic changed day-to-day life in America. The theatre is currently undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation project that is expected to be completed by 2020. ![]() The Van Buren Drive-In Theatre is an iconic landmark in Riverside, CA that has been in operation for over 70 years. The renovation project is expected to be completed by 2020. However, due to public outcry, the city reversed its decision and instead entered into a long-term lease with a non-profit organization called Save Our Heritage Organization (SOHO) with the intention of restoring the theatre to its former glory.Īs of 2019, the Van Buren Drive-In Theatre is undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation project that includes new concession stands, restrooms, and an updated screening area with state-of-the-art digital projection and sound equipment. In 2012, the City of Riverside reached a deal with developers to demolish the drive-in theatre and build a new shopping center on the property. The Van Buren Drive-In Theatre was one of the first drive-in theatres in Southern California and remained in operation until 2008 when it was closed due to declining attendance and competition from newer, multiplex movie theatres. Van Buren, who owned and operated the theatre until his death in 1976. The theatre is named after its founder, Harry G. ![]() Located at 6250 Van Buren Boulevard, the theatre was originally built to accommodate 400 cars and has since been expanded to accommodate 700 cars. ![]() The Van Buren Drive-In Theatre in Riverside, CA is a historic landmark that has been in operation since 1949. Brief History of the Van Buren Drive-In Theatre in Riverside, CA
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