Calling all movie buffs and night owls!!! We’ve got some exciting news for you!

Get ready to ditch the traditional theatre seats and rev up your excitement engines, because the City of Hobart is bringing back to the Drive-In for a fun weekend of flicks!

Back by popular demand, we will be reliving the good ol’ days of retro-inspired fun as the pop-up Hobart Drive-in Cinema returns this weekend, from 18 to 20 August 2023–oh and did we mention, it’s FREE!

This weekend your car becomes the comfiest seat in town and the night sky sets the stage for cinematic awesomeness that no other IMAX theatres can ever achieve…

What’s on the Watchlist

Whether you’re coming for a romantic date night, a fun family get-together, or just a chill night with friends under the starlit sky, we’ve got the ultimate lineup to keep you glued to your seats.

Three nights, three top-rated films, and a sky full of shimmering stars–the kind of movie magic that turns ordinary nights into unforgettable adventures. 

Kick it off on Friday with a romantic mediaeval fantasy, “The Princess Bride.”

Saturday’s gonna be all about busting out your dance moves with the musical extravaganza “Happy Feet.”

And for the perfect Sunday chill, get cosy with the out-of-this-world sci-fi classic, “E.T.”

It’s a cinematic journey that’ll have you laughing, tapping your feet, and reaching for the stars–all in one weekend!

Showtime & Slots

Time to spill the beans on the clock!

At the stroke of 6:00 PM each night, gates will officially open. 30 minutes before the official showtime, the cars may start to line up–eager beavers vying for their prime spot.

Now, here comes the twist: there’s room for just 100 lucky ducks in each session. Organised on a ‘first in, first parked’ basis, there are no pre-booked tickets and no fancy business–it’s all about seizing that golden opportunity and parking your excitement in the perfect spot.

It’s like having front-row seats in an exclusive movie club! So, take note of the time, snag your spot, and let’s dive into a night of movies, stars, and that VIP-like vibe! 

Drive-in Dos and Don’ts

Roll on in with your most comfy wheels: be it a classic convertible, trusty old pickup, or a family SUV, because the big screen is about to become your ultimate nighttime entertainment hub. Now, if you’re scratching your head about the best way to watch, no need to fret. There’s no hard and fast rule here. You could cosy up inside your car, catching the action through your windshield, or throw open the back hatch and witness it in reverse–your choice. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, you may also climb atop your car’s hood and make it a grand affair. 

Just remember to flip that radio switch, as the movie’s audio will also be aired through an FM radio station. Tune in via your car stereo, or tune-up a portable FM radio. Feel every scene, catch every whisper, and don’t miss a beat of the action. Just relax in your car seats and pull out the softest bean bags you’ve got!

Silver Screen Snacks

Ever reminisce about the good ol’ days of cinema treats? Well, get ready to relive that magic at the Hobart Drive-in Cinema. Whether you’re all about the choc-tops, can’t resist the buttery popcorn, or just want to dive into some classic goodies, the food vendors on site are like your personal food fairies. They’re serving up car-friendly delights, desserts, non-alcoholic drinks, and a lot more that will turn your movie night into a gourmet adventure. 

And hey, if you’re feeling a little creative, go ahead and bring your own snacks and drinks. Essentially, it’s a night for everyone so, there’s no limit to how you can craft your very own blockbuster experience!

Connecting the Community

More than just a regular weekend of watching movies, the Hobart Drive-in Cinema plays a significant role in the City of Hobart’s ‘Out in the Open’ program. This initiative actively motivates individuals to step out of their homes and relish the beauty of Hobart’s parks and streets, all without a hefty price tag. Notably, this initiative, per se, is offered entirely free of charge.

The cinema event shows how the city really wants to bring people together and let them have a good time. It’s all about creating a strong community and giving people the chance to meet, have fun, and share experiences. This event highlights the city’s strong dedication to making people feel connected and helping them create special memories.

So, if you loved what you’ve just read, mark your calendars, rev those engines, and grab some snacks because the Hobart Drive-in Cinema is about to take movie nights to a whole new starry, starry level! See you this weekend? 

Things to remember to prepare for Your Perfect Night 🌟

Just to sum up, for those heading along, to help ensure that your drive-in cinema experience is smooth and enjoyable. Here are some friendly reminders to help you plan your night at the Hobart Drive-in Cinema:

• When and where is the event? The pop-up drive-in cinema takes place at the Royal Hobart Regatta Grounds.
• What Movies are playing? The Princess Bride (Friday 18th of Aug), Happy Feet (Saturday 19th Aug) & E.T: The Extra-Terrestrial (Sunday 20th Aug)
• Is there an admission fee? No, the Hobart Drive-in Cinema is a free event for all to enjoy. However, it is limited to 100 vehicles, so first in best dressed.
• Can I bring my own snacks? Absolutely! You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks to make your movie night even more delightful.
• What time should I arrive? Gates open 1 hour before film start time. Traffic can begin queueing 30 mins before gate opens (1hr 30m before film starts).
• What do I need to bring? Bring your car, some cozy blankets, and an eagerness for a fantastic movie night under the stars.
• Can we BYO alcohol? No.
• What amenities will be on site? Public toilets, First aid & Food vendors
• What happens if it is going to rain or is really windy? The event will be cancelled in poor weather conditions. Follow the City of Hobart Facebook page for any updates about the event on the day.

Don’t miss out on the chance to relive the charm of drive-in cinemas and connect with your fellow Hobartians in a wonderful outdoor setting. The Hobart Drive-in Cinema is your ticket to a magical night filled with laughter, cinematic wonders, and a strong sense of community. See you under the starry sky!

For more information, you may visit the City of Hobart’s official website at https://www.hobartcity.com.au.