The coronavirus pandemic is challenging every individual on the planet nowadays. However, this pandemic has also brought different individuals to become more creative despite the challenges. Social gatherings, despite being initially canceled were pushed through online platforms or other socially-distanced events.
The same goes for activities that families love to do outside their home: dining, eating out, or watching movies.
Because of the coronavirus, a lot of establishments were forced to shut down. That is why restaurants and even supermarkets have thought of converting their parking spaces into drive-in theaters.
The comeback of drive-in theaters
Classic drive-in theaters were in demand during the pandemic. However, there are only 300 of these theaters around the country. Because of this, very few families are able to enjoy the chance of watching a film and stay socially-distanced with other people.
Due to the demand for a different kind of activity while still in this pandemic, restaurants and other establishments are turning their parking lots to drive-in theaters.
Restaurants in Omaha and Arizona have put up drive-in theaters in their parking lots since April. The trial run went good, so some of the restaurants decided that it will become a weekly movie night.
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Shop then get entertained
Aside from several restaurants baiting tot he idea of drive-in theaters, the supermarket chain, Walmart, has also announced their plan to turn their parking spaces to drive-in theaters. The supermarket chain is partnering with Tribeca Studios.
Starting in August at select Walmart stores, we’re partnering with @Tribeca and rolling out the red carpet for drive-in movie premieres, complete with car-side and service. Stay tuned for more details. See you at the movies! https://t.co/JfUPB6QK8C pic.twitter.com/t4Enk8aYzL — Walmart (@Walmart) July 1, 2020
In a tweet by Walmart, they said they are "rolling out the red carpet for drive-in movie premieres."
Now, aside from grocery shopping, watching a movie with some good snacks will also be offered by Walmart.
There are no details yet on how the drive-in theater will work, but what's sure is that the drive-ins will be ready in August.
History of Drive-in Theaters
Because people need to maintain social distance, a drive-in theater is an excellent way for families to have some extra fun.
Looking back at history, social distancing is the same reason why drive-in theaters were put up in 1933. The 1930s was the time when there was a polio outbreak. It was only in 1955 that the vaccine for polio was discovered. This allowed drive-in theaters to be popular with families, in specific.
Drive-in theaters, during that time, targeted parents by saying that the drive-in theaters are flu and polio protected.
