What to know before you go – enjoying one of America’s last Drive-In Theaters

This weekend is one that many Southwest Montana families have had circled on their calendars since the early days of winter.  No, it's not opening day of baseball season.  It's not Memorial Day or Mother's Day.  Its opening weekend at the Silver Bow Drive-In, one of the few operating drive-in theaters left in existence and a treasure to those who enjoy it.

What makes it even more unique is that there are two screens, one north of the projector building and one to the south, giving viewers the choice of two popular movies, and Silver Bow Drive-In always has the summer's hottest movies, very reasonable admission prices and a great selection of snacks at a very reasonable price.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

The Silver Bow Drive-In is committed to the safety of everyone, and they have a few rules you need to know.  First of all, the speed limit is always 5 mph, and they ask that you always keep your eyes open for kids going to and from the snack bar.  Your admission is good for only one side and, of course, no alcohol, drugs, fireworks or firearms are permitted.

IS OUTSIDE FOOD PERMITTED?

For a small charge, Silver Bow Drive-In will issue you a food permit which will allow you to bring in outside food or a cooler, provided it is soft drinks only.  Pets are also allowed provided they are kept inside the vehicle or the cab.  Smoking is not permitted within 30 feet of any buildings and please do not discard any tobacco products on premises.

You can enjoy the feature from the back of your truck or even your lawn chair but remember to bring along an FM radio to pick up your movie's soundtrack.  Shoes are always required, and no refunds will be issued.  Children must be accompanied by a guardian at all times and no running or roughhousing will be tolerated.  Disruptive activities will be grounds for removal from the premises without a refund.

IS THE DRIVE IN POPULAR?

If this photo is any indicator, you should plan on arriving early.  We took this picture around 7pm on opening night with showtime set for dusk, or, around 8:45pm.  This weekend the drive-in is open through Sunday night and will be showing "Thunderbolts" on one side and "A Minecraft Movie" on the other.