99W Drive-In Theatre Open For Early Season

By: Natascha Lambing                                                                                              

NEWBERG Ore. - Like many beloved spaces in Newberg, the 99W Drive-In Theatre has undergone adaptations in business practices to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions, including an early opening this season. 

Operating since August 1953, the 99W Drive-In is Western Oregon’s only site built drive-in movie theater. Like the Cameo Theatre, the 99W Drive-In is owned and operated by the Francis family. Equipped with FM speakers to be listened through car stereo, a snackbar reminiscent of a past era, and “the old concession snack bar reel between shows,” the Drive-In is a perfect COVID-safe option for viewers of all ages. 

In a typical season, the 99W Drive-In opens around March, just in time for spring break movie viewers. Third-generation owner and operator Brian Francis considered running an “endless season” this year as other Drive-In theaters sometimes do in order to account for The Cameo’s temporary closure. He decided against doing so, but promptly reopened Drive-In showings in late January after a short break for the holiday season. 

Under current restrictions, the Drive-In accepts 200 cars per night, operating at about half capacity on a first-come, first-served basis. They continue to offer concessions for Drive-In showings, and the Cameo provides a takeout option of popcorn and sodas on Friday and Saturday evenings. 

Regarding movies currently available for viewing, Francis says he does his own bookings, sometimes taking recommendations and feedback from patrons on the Drive-In’s Facebook page. Recent showings have consisted of modern classics like “The Mummy” and “50 First Dates.”  Francis said that with approximately the same amount of draw with new releases as with “older” classics, it makes sense financially to avoid the large rates that accompany a new release. However, Francis noted a recent high interest in showing new releases. He may begin to include them.

In addition to movie screenings, over the course of Summer 2020, the 99W Drive-In hosted various ENCORE live performances including livestreams of Metallica and Garth Brooks. With no new performances currently scheduled, the 99W Drive-In continues to offer film screenings on Friday and Saturday nights, with “The Notebook” and “Phantom of the Opera” on March 5-6th. 

For more information about rules, COVID regulations and movies (and a highly entertaining frequently asked questions section), visit the 99W’s temporary website, newberg-movies.multiscreensite.com. For continued updates visit the 99W’s Facebook, Instagram or Twitter pages.

Photographed by Jen Wright