It’ll be a while before movie theaters are able to open up again, as they are in the fourth phase of Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s statewide economic reopening plan. But drive-in movies are allowed, and thanks to Covid-19, they are making a comeback on Long Island.
On Saturday, the Southampton Arts Center will be first out of the gate with a showing of “Raiders of the Lost Ark” at Cooper’s Beach. The beach parking lot will open at 7 p.m. and the film will begin at approximately 8:30. Space is limited, and advance ticketing is required. The cost is $50 per car. The center’s website, southamptonartscenter.org, has additional information and a link for tickets. The event will also serve as a food drive benefiting Heart of the Hamptons, so guests have been encouraged to bring nonperishable food items.
On Wednesday, May 27, Cedars Golf Club and Movies in the Moonlight will co-sponsor a drive-in movie experience at the Strawberry Fields fairgrounds at 1175 Middle Road in Mattituck. “The Goonies” will be shown. Gates open at 7:30 p.m. and the film will begin at dark. For the soundtrack, viewers will be able to tune in to a radio station the night of the show. Guests have been encouraged to make a donation to Community Action of Southold Town, a nonprofit organization. They must stay in their cars during the duration of the film, and there will be no concessions or bathroom access.
West of here, Vespa Italian Chophouse at 842 Fort Salonga Road in Northport and the Sayville Athletic Club at 209 Railroad Avenue in Sayville are also offering weekly drive-in classic movies with radio-station sound. These come with an admission cost that also includes food and drinks. Tickets range from $20 to $100.