Drive-In theaters and Maine summer vacations go hand-in-hand, especially in the Western Maine Lakes and Mountains Region. We are lucky enough to have not one, but two drive-in movie theaters.
As a kid, I remember going to the drive-in in our family station wagon. We always dressed in our pajamas and brought our pillows. It was as much a summer tradition as s’mores and campfires.
We’d pay by the carload, find the right viewing spot, roll down the window and hook on the gray speaker box. Popcorn and soda from the snack bar were treats on those special nights.
Though there were between 4,000 and 5,000 drive-ins operating around the world during their peak in the 1950s and 60s. Today, 496 remain and five drive-ins still operate in Maine. Closest to the Sebago Lakes Region are the Prides Corner Drive-In and the Bridgton Twin Drive-In, both located on Route 302.
I recently caught up with owner John Tevanian of the Bridgton Twin Drive-In as he cleaned the grounds following the midnight showing of Harry Potter. John says he was born into the business, which his parents purchased in 1971.
“Ever since I was old enough, I remember picking up trash and testing popcorn,” says John.
And since the 80s he has spent every summer night at the drive-in.
In 2000, John added a second screen. Screen one accommodates 300 cars, while about 150 can view screen two. The cost is $7.50/person and $5 for children ages 5-11. Movies are shown seven nights a week during the summer and on weekends in the spring and fall.
New this year is the addition of midnight shows. So far, John has shown Transformers and Harry Potter at midnight. Since both did well, he says it may become more of a tradition.
To check on shows and times:
Bridgton Twin Drive-In, Route 302, Bridgton, 207.647.8666
Prides Corner Drive-In, 651 Bridgton Road, Westbrook, 207.797.3154
Or check this Web site: www.drive-ins.com/theater/metbrid .
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