Who doesn’t love watching movies? It’s the go-to for chilling out, hanging with family and friends, or just getting lost in a story. But let’s be real, sometimes hitting “play” on our TV or computer can feel a bit blah. So, why not switch it up with a classic drive-in movie?
Sure, Calgary might not have a ton of drive-ins in this day and age, but we’ve scoped out every corner of the city to bring you the lowdown on the best options. Get ready to have a blast and a ‘reel’ good time!
Table of Contents
Canyon Meadows Cinemas
— Media by madatthesun
Website: http://www.canyonmeadowscinemas.ca/
Address: 13226 Macleod Trail #110, Calgary, AB T2J 7E5, Canada
Contact Details: +1 403-670-5444
Thankfully, Calgary’s beloved “cheap theatre” has adjusted to public health restrictions by transforming its parking lot into a drive-in venue. Canyon Meadows Cinemas now host movie screenings in this space, and it’s priced at a reasonable $35 per car.
Fans of classic movies (like us!) will love this place as they often showcase films dating as far back as the ’60s.
To add a bit of fun to your experience, consider grabbing a beverage from “The Dirty Soda Shoppe.” They blend classic soft drinks with imaginative syrup flavors, naming each drink after popular movie titles.
Grey Eagle Drive-In
Address: Grey Eagle Resort and Casino (3777 Grey Eagle Drive, Calgary)
Contact Details: 403-543-1509
The Grey Eagle Resort & Casino’s Grey Eagle Drive-In is among Calgary’s newer drive-in theatre experiences. Situated on the Tsuut’ina Nation, this theatre presents films on a large stage with four expansive screens.
It’s important to note that public programming exclusively operates during the summer months, making it an ideal addition to your summer itinerary in the city.
It costs $40 per vehicle for most movies, which might be slightly pricey, but it includes some handy services. Say, before the show starts, you can buy food and drinks that they’ll bring right to your car for you.
Motor Nights Drive-In
Website: https://www.instagram.com/motornightsdrivein/
Motor Nights’ drive-in events are a cool way to spend a summer evening in Calgary. Put together by Curiocity Calgary and YYC Food Trucks, these events happen all summer long and offer a mix of movies, from classics to new releases.
And hey, they’ve got some tasty food truck snacks there too!
These events don’t have a set place; they pop up in different spots across the city, with previous events being held at the Cochrane AG Society.
To catch one of these drive-in events, stay updated on their Instagram account for the exact locations of future events; they regularly post updates there.
Big Art Drive-In
Website: https://bigartdrivein.com/
There’s no confirmed spot yet for the Big Art Drive-In after last year’s event closure, but it’s expected to resume this year! This drive-in event is put on by a mix of nonprofits, charities, and for-profit partners, all aiming to create an awesome and affordable community space.
The organizers promise cool stuff while you’re chilling in your car watching the movie – think special effects and live-action actors to make the experience more immersive. Plus, they’re planning to bring a full menu right to your car!
To stay in the loop about their plans, you can follow them on social media or check out their website for updates.
Genesis Land Drive-In Movies
Website: https://www.genesisland.com/genesis-land-drive-in-movie/
Address: Genesis Place (800 East Lake Boulevard NE, Airdrie) and Genesis Centre (#10 7555 Falconridge Boulevard NE, Calgary)
Contact Details: (403) 266-8079
So, Genesis Land Drive-In Movies don’t really have a fixed schedule, but they tend to throw an annual drive-in movie event at two spots in Calgary and Airdrie. Their recent event featured a double feature with “The Lion King” and “Jurassic Park.”
If you hear about an upcoming drive-in event, don’t hesitate to join! Well, proceeds from ticket sales go to charity, so you’ll feel great about the experience. And don’t worry, it’s quite affordable, usually starting at only $20 per ticket.
High River Sunset Drive-in
Website: https://highriversunsetdrivein.ca/
Address: 64137 Highway 543 East, High River, AB, Canada, Alberta
The High River Sunset Drive-In isn’t your typical drive-in movie spot in Calgary. They usually do double feature films and offer a cool mix of classics and family-friendly flicks – great for either dates or family outings.
Compared to the other drive-ins in this list, this one is slightly expensive at $40 per vehicle. But at least, the diversity of films is pretty fun to look forward to.
Just a heads-up, they only run movies during the summer season, so plan accordingly!
