Once a relic of the past, drive-in movie theaters have made a spectacular comeback in lieu of Covid-19. The pandemic has made conventional movie theaters a thing of the past. This doesn’t mean that we are unable to enjoy the pleasures of life whilst adhering to the university’s social distancing guidelines. Thanks to the Student Government Association, the student body gets to experience its first “Drive-in Movie Night” on October 3rd. If this is your first time attending a drive-in movie, here are a few ways that you can make your drive-in movie experience one for the books, while in the comfort of your car.
Snacks come before anything
The most important step to this preparation process is making sure that your snacks are in line and in an easily accessible location. For the individuals that have a special diet, like vegan/vegetarian, gluten-free, allergen-free, Publix has a variety of healthy snacks available for you to choose from, so you don’t feel like you’re cheating on your diet.
Prior to the pandemic, student Jasmine Moore, had her fair share of nights at a drive-in movie theater with friends.
“I have been to multiple drive-in movie theaters and without the snacks it’s pretty miserable,” Moore said. “You get hungry sitting through a two, sometimes, three-hour movie without the sugar and salt. This will be the closest thing that you get to a night at AMC, so make sure to stop by the Sunoco on Gaines Street before embarking on this journey.”
Preparation for girls/guys night
Although social distancing is being strictly enforced campus wide, there are still ways to enjoy your night, while simultaneously keeping you and your peers safe.
Meet up separate cars in a general location prior to driving to Bragg Stadium. Once you’ve made your way in, you and your friends can find the perfect spot to park your cars and relax.
After you’ve settled in, it’s time to pull out the blankets and pillows. Considering October is a fall month, you will want to be as cozy as ever, since you’ll be calling that car home for a few hours. Make sure to stock up on plenty of tissues, hand sanitizer and trash bags to keep the car Covid-19 safe. Remember staying safe and Covid-19 free is the goal!
Senior, Rameau Morency, has never been to a drive-in movie, even though his hometown of West Palm Beach has a variety of theatres.
“This will be my first time attending a drive-in movie theater, so I am going to make sure my car is extra prepared for the night,” Morency said. “Not only will I have the snacks prepared, but just in case I get too hot and want to sit on the hood of my car, I’ll have enough blankets to make myself comfortable.”
Amazon has all the extra goodies you may need
If you’re looking to spruce up your car prior to the drive-in movie, check out Amazon for some gadgets that will make this experience 10x greater.
To really set the mood, especially if you’re attending with your significant other, Amazon carries interior car LED strips that can easily be set up. Once installed, you have the ability to change the color of the lights to match the emotion that the movie is making you feel or to even further set the mood.
For the individuals looking to go above and beyond, Amazon even has party accessories, like movie glasses, movie clapboards and glow sticks! It might sound corny at first, but any little thing can add joy back into everyday life.
SGA Vice President, Carrington Whigham, has worked tirelessly to put together this event for students and wants everyone to have a good time.
“I am most excited about offering the students a chance to feel the Rattler spirit as safely as the conditions of the pandemic will allow us to, so I hope each Rattler attending goes all out for this one. By adding a little flare to your whip, you’re guaranteed to have a good time,” Whigham said.
There’s a first for everything, so follow these tips to maximize the euphoric experience, and don’t miss out on viewing Black Panther at SGA’s drive-in movie on October 3rd at Bragg Stadium.