Put an Old-School Twist on Your Movie Night at Vineland Landmark Delsea Drive-In
For an outdoor movie viewing experience that people of all ages will enjoy, visit New Jersey’s only authentic drive-in theatre. The renowned Delsea Drive-In has a modern approach to a nostalgic cinematic activity. From inside their cars or under the stars, guests can view films from blockbuster hits to old classics, all while enjoying healthy concession choices. The drive-in is an especially appealing activity today for families who want to enjoy entertainment together while being apart from others.
When the original Delsea Drive-In closed in 1987, now-owner John DeLeonardis and his wife Jude saw an opportunity to revamp the property and 35mm movie projector. A second screen was added in 2008 and the two screens were converted to digital projection in 2013. These modern updates helped boost the viewing experience for the audiences. The concession stand was inside by 2005 and the rotating menu includes plenty of healthy dishes. The owners, John, who is a Pediatrician and, Jude, who is a Registered Nurse thought it was important to include healthier options.
The Delsea Drive-In menu is much more sophisticated than your standard popcorn stand. The offerings feature movie-viewing staples like chicken tenders, hot dogs, and candy, but what you’ll also find are more upscale options like teriyaki chicken with edamame, pulled pork sandwiches, and shrimp with brown rice. There’s even a gluten free menu and Atkins foods options. For the less health conscious, you can find cake slices, shakes, soft-serve ice cream, and more. Patrons who wish to bring in outside food and beverages must purchase a food permit online for $20.
Movie audio at the drive-in is broadcasted through FM radio signal, so guests can either tune in using their car radio or by portable radio. For a movie experience under the stars, guests have the option to sit in front of their vehicle and use a portable radio. As for the genres of movies that are shown, the range is extensive. In June, Delsea Drive-In screened a Jaws double-feature, Disney favorite Zootopia, and blockbuster film The Avengers. The drive in strives to maintain a family friendly environment, but will selectively screen R-rated films if the demand is great enough. Recently, Delsea Drive-In was the only New Jersey venue to participate in an exclusive drive-in event. This live performance by country music superstar Garth Brooks was screened from 300 drive-in theaters. The concert was the largest ever one-night show to play at outdoor theaters across the country.
The Delsea Drive-In Theatre has always shown first-run features; however, this season, due to COVID-19, the drive-in has been filling the first-run void with classic movies. The Delsea Drive-In Theatre will continue to play classic favorites as well as first-run features as they become available. In general, films at the drive-in are scheduled on a weekly basis, all features start at dusk, and the show still goes on in the event of rain. The drive-in is primarily open on weekends only, with expanded hours during peak seasons. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, the theatre is open on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. After Labor Day until October, days are reduced to Fridays and Saturdays. At this time, tickets can only be purchased online at $11 per person. Under current social distancing policy, all cars are parked greater than 6 feet apart.
All guests are urged to review the Delsea Drive-In website and all its information by visiting https://www.delseadrive-in.com/
