Drive-In Movie Theater
Operate outdoor drive-in movie theater experience
Overview
Drive-in theaters generate $200,000-$1,000,000 seasonally with 40-60% margins.
In 2025, nostalgic outdoor experiences popular.
Revenue from admission ($8-$15 per person or $25-$40 per car), concessions (60-80% margins, 40-50% of revenue), special event nights ($50-$100 per car), advertising and sponsorships, and private screenings.
Services include outdoor movie screenings nightly (seasonal), dual or triple screen options, FM radio audio transmission, concession stand with classic theater food, playground or pre-show entertainment, and special event programming.
Successful drive-ins offer family-friendly nostalgic experience, maximize concessions revenue, program double features, operate seasonally (Apr-Oct typically), host special events, and maintain clean facilities.
Families and nostalgia-seekers as clients.
Marketing through nostalgia angle, social media, local advertising, tourism sites, family publications, and special event promotion.
Required Skills
- Film Exhibition
- Projection Technology
- Concessions Operations
- Film Booking
- Outdoor Operations
- Facility Management
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Nostalgic appeal to families
- Outdoor entertainment unique experience
- Concessions revenue high-margin
- Can operate with lower staff
- Special events and themes
Cons
- Highly seasonal in most climates
- Need large land for car parking
- Weather-dependent operations
- Film booking costs same as indoor theaters
- Declining number of drive-ins nationally
How to Get Started
- Secure large land suitable for drive-in
- Install large outdoor projection screens
- Set up FM transmission system
- Build concession stand facilities
- Negotiate film booking deals
- Market nostalgic family experience
- Operate seasonally and maximize concessions
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