Have you ever wondered what is the name of a cinema where you watch films not in the hall, but sitting in a car? This is not science fiction or a retro phenomenon - such establishments still exist today, combining nostalgia for the past with modern technology. **Drive-in cinema** (or drive-in cinema) is a unique format of film screenings where the screen is located in an open area, and the audience remains in their cars, listening to the sound through FM radio or special speakers.
In the era of the pandemic and social distancing, drive-in movie theaters have experienced a renaissance, becoming a safe alternative to traditional movie theaters. But how do they work? Where to look for them in Russia and the world? And why is this format still popular despite competition from online cinemas? In this article we will analyze everything: from the history of its origin to the technical nuances of organizing a show, and also give practical advice on how to get the most out of the viewing experience.
What is the correct name for a drive-in cinema?
The official name of such an establishment is **autocinema** (in Russian) or drive-in theater (in English-speaking countries). In some regions you can find alternative options:
- 🚗 Drive-in cinema - tracing paper from English, often used in advertising.
- 🎬 Avtokino - an abbreviated name popular on social networks.
- 📽️ Open air cinema for cars - a descriptive option that is sometimes found in posters.
In the USSR and post-Soviet countries in the 1960s–1980s, such cinemas were called **"drive-in cinema installations"**, but the term did not catch on. Today in Russia the word **"drive-in cinema"** is most often used, which is even enshrined in some regulatory documents (for example, in the rules for organizing public events).
Interestingly, the format has its own characteristics in different countries: In the US and Canada, drive-in theaters are often combined with fast food restaurants, where you can order food directly to your car.
In Europe, temporary drive-in cinemas are popular, organized in stadiums or parking lots, and in Asia (for example, Japan) they often become part of large entertainment complexes.
History of drive-in cinemas: from the USA to the USSR
The world's first drive-in cinema opened June 7, 1933 in Camden (New Jersey, USA). Its founder is Richard Hollingshead, who experimented with the idea of showing drive-in films. The first sessions took place on an improvised stage with a screen measuring only 12x10 meters, and the sound was broadcast through three huge speakers.
The peak of drive-in popularity occurred in the 1950s–1960s, when there were more than 4,000 drive-in cinemas. They have become a symbol of American culture, a place for dates and family vacations. However, with the advent of VCRs and cable television, interest in the format began to decline. By 2020, there were about 300 operating drive-in movie theaters left in the United States.
In the USSR, the first drive-in cinema appeared in 1964 in Moscow on the territory of VDNH. It was designed for 200 cars and worked on a first-come, first-served basis. In the 1970s and 1980s, similar establishments opened in Leningrad, Kyiv, Minsk and other large cities, but after the collapse of the Union, most of them closed.
| Year | Event | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 1933 | Opening of the first drive-in cinema (Richard Hollingshead) | USA |
| 1940s | Drive-in construction boom (more than 1,000 establishments) | USA, Canada |
| 1964 | The first drive-in cinema in the USSR (VDNH, Moscow) | USSR |
| 2020 | Rebirth of the format due to the COVID-19 pandemic | world |
- Yes, with pleasure
- Only if there is a unique film
- No, I prefer classic cinemas
- Already been, it's cool!
How a modern drive-in cinema works: equipment and infrastructure
A modern drive-in cinema is a complex technical complex that includes:
- Screen: usually inflatable or stationary, ranging in size from 10x6 to 30x15 meters. For high-quality images, LED panels or projectors with a brightness of
20,000 ANSI lumens. - Sound system:
- 📻 FM transmitter — spectators tune the radio in the car to a certain frequency.
- 🔊 Individual speakers — attached to the car window (less commonly).
- 🎧 Bluetooth speakers — for those who came without a car (for example, on a bicycle).
One of the key elements is seat reservation system. Unlike classic cinemas, you can’t just buy a ticket for a movie here: you need to choose a parking space in advance (usually through a website or mobile application). This is due to the limited number of “seats” and the need to maintain distance between cars.
How does an FM transmitter work in a drive-in movie theater?
The sound from the film is broadcast on a specific radio frequency (for example, 87.9 FM). Viewers tune their car radio to this frequency and listen to the sound through the car speakers. The quality depends on the power of the transmitter and the distance from it. Some drive-in movie theaters use multi-channel transmitters to avoid interference.
Important nuance: drive-in cinemas operate only at night (usually sessions start after 21:00). This is because even the most powerful projector cannot compete with sunlight. The exception is LED screens, but they are rare due to their high cost.
If your car has a weak battery, come to your session with a full charge or take a power bank to charge your phone. Prolonged viewing with the radio and headlights on may drain the battery.
Where to find a drive-in cinema in Russia and the world: map and tips
In Russia, drive-in cinemas are not yet as common as in the USA or Europe, but their number is growing. As of 2026, there are operating establishments in the following cities:
- 📍 Moscow: Drive-In Cinema at VDNH (seasonal), Autocinema "Wings" (at Vnukovo airport).
- 📍 St. Petersburg: Summer drive-in cinema in 300th Anniversary Park.
- 📍 Kazan: Avtokino "Kazan Arena" (in the stadium area).
- 📍 Sochi: Drive-in cinema "Sochi Park" (open all year round).
- 📍 Yekaterinburg: Drive-In "Uralmash" (temporary, summer).
Abroad the choice is much wider. Leaders in the number of drive-in cinemas:
- 🇺🇸 USA: more than 300 establishments (the most famous are Wellfleet Drive-In in Massachusetts and Cinefamily in California).
- 🇩🇪 Germany: about 50 drive-in cinemas (for example, Autokino Köln).
- 🇬🇧 UK: The Luna Drive-In Cinema (mobile format).
- 🇦🇺 Australia: Moonlight Cinema in Melbourne.
To find the nearest drive-in cinema, use:
- Google/Yandex maps with the request "
drive-in cinema near me". - Specialized sites:
- 🌍 DriveInTheater.com (world catalog).
- 🇷🇺 Kudago (poster for Russia).
1) Do I need to book a place in advance?
2) Are motorcycles/bicycles allowed?
3) Are there any restrictions on the height of the car (important for SUVs and minibuses).-->
Rules for visiting a drive-in cinema: do's and don'ts
Drive-in cinemas have their own rules, which differ from classic cinemas. Here are the key points:
⚠️ Attention: In most drive-in cinemas no smoking (including electronic cigarettes) and consume alcohol on the premises. Violators may be asked to leave the session without a refund.
- 🚘 Arrival: Arrive 30-40 minutes early to secure a seat and set up your radio.
- 📵 Phones: Switch to silent mode - the screen light distracts other viewers.
- 🐕 Animals: Allowed in most establishments, but must be inside the car.
- 🍿 Food: You can bring your own or buy on site (some drive-in movie theaters have food trucks).
- 🚪 Doors and trunk: Keep closed so as not to disturb other light.
Pay special attention security:
⚠️ Attention: If you come with children, make sure they do not leave the car during the session. There are often other cars driving around the drive-in cinema area, and in the dark you may not notice a child.
As for payment, prices vary:
- In Russia: from 500 to 1,500 rubles per car (regardless of the number of passengers).
- In the USA/Europe: from $10 to $30 per car.
You can pay online when booking or on site (cash/card).
Blanket or blanket (evenings may be chilly)
Phone charger
Snacks and drinks (if you don't plan to buy on site)
Phone stand (for convenient viewing if the screen is far away)
Mosquito repellent (relevant for open areas) -->
Pros and cons of drive-in cinemas: is it worth going?
The drive-in cinema format has its advantages and disadvantages. Let's look at them in a comparative table:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 🚗 Convenience: no need to look for parking, you can come in your own car. | 🌧️ Depends on the weather: rain or strong wind can ruin the session. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Suitable for family viewing (children can lie in the back seat). | 🔊 Sound quality depends on the radio in the car (sometimes there is interference). |
| 🍿 You can bring your own food and drinks (save on snacks). | 🅿️ Limited number of seats - it is better to book your ticket in advance. |
| 😷 Safety during pandemics (no close contact with other people). | 💺 It’s uncomfortable to sit in a car for a long time (especially in the back seat). |
| 🎬 Unique atmosphere: viewing under the stars, nostalgia for the retro format. | 🕒 Sessions start late (usually after 21:00), which is inconvenient for early birds. |
The drive-in cinema is ideal for:
- 💑 Romantic dates (the atmosphere of privacy in the car).
- 👨👩👧 Family holiday (children do not disturb other spectators).
- 🎉 Thematic shows (for example, retro films or blockbuster premieres).
- 🚗 Car enthusiastswho want to combine viewing with a test drive of a new car.
But who should choose a classic cinema:
- 🦽 People with disabilities (not all drive-in cinemas are adapted).
- 🎧 For those who value ideal sound quality (you can’t achieve it in a car).
- 😴 For those who are not ready to sit for 2+ hours in one position.
How to organize a drive-in cinema yourself: step-by-step instructions
If there is no drive-in cinema near you, you can organize one yourself - for example, for a private party or corporate event. Here's what you need for this:
- Site selection:
- 🏞️ A flat asphalt area (parking lot, field, stadium) is suitable.
- 📏 Minimum area: 30×20 meters (for 10–15 cars).
- 🚫 Make sure there are no obstacles to the projection (trees, buildings).
- Equipment:
- 🎥 Projector with brightness from
5,000 ANSI lumens(For example, Epson EB-L21000U). - 🖥️ Screen: inflatable (from 3x2 m) or stationary (can be made from white tarpaulin).
- 📻 FM transmitter (For example, Whistler WS1040) or speakers on stands.
- 🔌 Power supply: generator or extension cord with 220V socket.
- 🎥 Projector with brightness from
- Machine placement:
- 🅿️ Draw chalk or place cones to indicate parking spaces.
- 📏 Distance between rows: at least 5 meters (for a good overview).
- Sound and communication:
- 🎧 Test the FM transmitter on different frequencies to avoid interference.
- 📡 If you use speakers, place them evenly around the site.
- Security:
- 🚨 Provide lighting for passages and emergency exits.
- 🚗 Limit the speed of cars in the area (maximum 10 km/h).
Equipment rental cost for one evening:
- Projector + screen: from 15,000 to 30,000 rubles.
- FM transmitter: from 5,000 rubles.
- Generator: from 3,000 rubles.
To legally screen a film you will need:
- Obtain permission for public display (contact Roskino or the film's distributor).
- Pay for the license (the cost depends on the film and the number of viewers).
- Coordinate the event with local authorities (if the site is public).
What films are best shown in a drive-in cinema?
Ideal genres:
- 🎬 Blockbusters (Action, fantasy) - spectacular scenes look good on the big screen.
- 💀 Horror — the atmosphere of night viewing in the car enhances the effect.
- 👨👩👧👦 Family films (cartoons, comedies).
- 🚗 Movies about cars (“Fast and Furious”, “Taxi”, “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels”).
Not recommended:
- 🗣️ Dramas with quiet dialogues — the sound in the car may not be ideal.
- 🎭 Arthouse — drive-in movie theater audiences usually like more dynamic films.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about drive-in cinemas
🔹 Is it possible to come to the drive-in cinema on a motorcycle or bicycle?
Yes, but you need to clarify the rules of a particular institution. Most drive-in cinemas allow motorcycles to enter, and sometimes there is a special area near the screen for cyclists. In this case, the sound is transmitted through portable speakers or Bluetooth headphones.
🔹 Do you need to turn off the headlights during the session?
Yes, headlights must be turned off to avoid blinding other spectators. Some drive-in theaters also ask you to dim the dashboard lights. If you need to illuminate the interior, use a flashlight with a red light (it's less distracting).
🔹 Is it possible to smoke in a drive-in cinema?
Smoking is prohibited in 90% of cases, including electronic cigarettes. This is due to fire safety and the comfort of other spectators. Violators may be asked to leave the area.
🔹 What to do if the battery runs out during a session?
Most drive-in cinemas have a help desk - you can call an employee and he will light up your car. You can also take a starter charger with you in advance (Jump Starter) or powerbank with a cigarette lighter adapter.
🔹 Why do drive-in cinemas often show retro films?
This is a tribute to tradition: in the 1950s–1980s, drive-ins were popular precisely because of the screenings of cult films (westerns, horrors, musicals). Today, retro films create a nostalgic atmosphere that is part of the charm of drive-in movie theaters. In addition, licenses for older films are cheaper.