Remember the thrill of dressing up in your pyjamas, climbing into the car with your family and going to the drive-in theatre?
South Quesnel Business Association is recreating that family fun with its Second Annual Outdoor Movie Night Sept. 14 at the Kart track, behind the oval track at Cariboo Raceway Park.
“We’re holding the movie night at the Kart Track to promote the park,” SQBA president Rob Moutray said.
“Its a great venue for such an event.”
The Lower Mainland company, Fresh Air Cinema, provides the mechanics and the large inflatable screen which offers an excellent viewing experience from anywhere on the kart track.
Outdoor Movie Night is also a fundraiser for local charities and this year all donations go to Jamie Loeppky, a young woman who is adjusting to life after her leg was amputated due to an accident in Mexico.
“We heard about Jamie’s ordeal and how it had such a negative financial impact on her family, so the association decided she would be a good local person to raise money for at this year’s outdoor movie night,” Moutray said.
He went on to say people can bring lawn chairs, blankets, flashlights, umbrellas (just in case), snacks and any other creature comforts to make the night special.
“People are encouraged to arrive early (gates open at 6:30 p.m.), bring a picnic dinner if they like, or a frisbee and enjoy the kart park,” Moutray said.
“Kart volunteers will have the grounds groomed within an inch of its life and the great location lends itself well to family activities.”
The movie begins as soon as its dark enough (Moutray estimated around 8 p.m.) and there will be a concession on site for those wishing to truly experience the drive-in atmosphere.
The audience can choose their spot to set up on the kart track with the oversized screen – at least 20 feet tall – in an ideal viewing location facing the track.
This year, the movie playing is The Pirates - Band of Misfits, an animated family movie with tons of laughs.
SQBA is asking for a minimum donation of $2 a person, however all donations are gratefully accepted and will be passed on to Jamie Loeppky.
There are no tickets to purchase, just show up at the gate.
Each person will receive a bracelet and are free to go anywhere on the track.
If last year is any indication, the little bit of rain didn’t phase the crowd, everyone had a great time.
Watch for directional signs either up Racing Road or Westland Road.
“There’s no end of possibilities for the Cariboo Raceway Park,” Moutray said.
“Concerts, festivals, any kind of public performance would suit that park, in addition to the great track sports.”
So pack up the kids, snacks and chairs and enjoy the Outdoor Movie Night Sept. 14.