Many people get a kick out of trying something new and exciting. Well how about something new but old as well? Now even though the movie may have been released before your time, many of us have watched the classic scene in Grease where Danny and Sandi go to the local drive-in movie theater for a date. Well how many of you know we have at least three drive-in movie theaters in our own backyard? They're located close to Charlotte in the cities of Albemarle, Belmont and Bessemer City. Having been to two of these I can say that it is always a great experience. One of the best things about the drive-in is that it is much cheaper than going to the regular theater, and you get to see two new movies!

Now it goes without saying that many of us have probably been looking for cheaper forms of entertainment recently given the economy. A trip to the drive-in just for the movies will cost you $7 or less per person. Most indoor theaters cost $10 on the weekend and only show one film. Most of the time when I go to the theater I try not to look at the concessions stand, so I’m not tempted to buy something. The prices have gotten so high. The drive-in concessions are usually much more reasonably priced.

The movies being shown usually change from week to week. The best way I’ve found to see what is playing is to go to the theaters' websites after a Wednesday to see if the information has been updated for the weekend. You can also call the number listed and ask, and often times they give the information on the answering machine or voicemail. If you live in an area close enough to one of the theaters the local newspapers will usually post what is playing. The first movie begins around 9 p.m., once it is dark enough. However, many people will come earlier to relax, hang out and enjoy the nice weather. On any given night you’ll see multiple forms of footballs being thrown, cornhole bags being tossed, and whatever else people can think to bring. The drive-in is a great way to spend a Friday or Saturday evening with friends and loved ones. So feel free to go old school some time!