Under the stars of the Okanagan night, one local pub is looking to bring back an old outdoor tradition for many this summer.
Penticton’s Barley Mill Brew Pub will be hosting “drive-in” style movie nights for 70 to 80 people on its outdoor patio through July and August, with proceeds from each of the weekly events set to go to BGC (formerly Boys and Girls) Okanagan Club.
“I love a good drive-in movie and Vernon is a two-hour drive away,” said the pub’s event manager Kori Iceton with a laugh. “It’s just a classic thing…you can sit back, relax and enjoy the show.”
Earlier this month via their social media channels, the pub called upon community members to list their all-time favourite movies. Upon feedback, Iceton came to a consensus on what the first three films will be: Grease, A Nightmare on Elm Street and Bohemian Rhapsody.
And from there, movie night at the Barely Mill was officially born. Starting on July 14, the pub’s outdoor patio will show films on a 20 by 20 screen every Thursday, starting with the three aforementioned classics.
Attendance is by donation, with the minimum amount set at $10.
The Barley Mill’s debut movie night is promised to be anything but an ordinary gathering around the big screen.
“We’re playing the Grease singalong version first,” Iceton explained. “The words are going to appear at the bottom of the screen, so people can dress up and sing with what’s happening. It’s going to be a blast.”
Though people won’t be watching the films from their vehicle, it’s the outdoor, community atmosphere that Iceton thinks will resonate with people who miss drive-in-style movie nights in Penticton which was once home to two drive-ins.
“Just the idea of sitting outside, under the stars, in the fresh air and enjoying a show that’s larger than life…that’s what we want to create,” she said.
While the select movies for July 14, 21 and 28 have been confirmed, Iceton added that the full slate of August movies will be revealed sooner rather than later.
Iceton is encouraging people to book their tickets ahead of time by visiting the pub’s Facebook page or website.
“It’s for a great cause and so we’re hoping each night sells out.”
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