Roll in to the drive in!

BALLARAT’S pop-up drive in theatre is returning to the showgrounds following a COVID and winter-imposed pause.

Operated by Delacombe Town Centre-based Showbiz Cinemas, the movies will roll on the big screen from Friday, 5 November.

When it set was up in 2020, the event was the first in the city for almost 30 years, and now Showbiz Group director Chris Jones said he’s looking forward to the drive-in’s return.

“We are absolutely delighted to be able to bring this concept back this spring and summer after continued difficult times for our community,” he said

“We understand the reopening of the drive-in this season will be one of the first major events in Ballarat since the easing of restrictions and what better way to enjoy a social outing, watching a movie on the big screen, whilst still being able to maintain physical distancing.”

Along with a range of movie going experiences, like drinks, popcorn and choc tops, the pop-up drive-in at the Ballarat Showgrounds will also feature a range of COVID safe measures including online only ticket sales and capped numbers.

Former Ballarat drive-in worker John Bourke has experience at two of the city’s previous outdoor cinemas and said the pandemic was helping push a resurgence in the experience.

“During these COVID times, we have seen many instances of drive-in theatres start to re-emerge,” he said.

“The notion of having the drive-in back up and running for a second season again in Ballarat is indeed very exciting.”