While the days of watching classic movies in your car under the stars are mainly memories of the past, Northumberland County residents and visitors can rewind time and enjoy the drive-in experience at the end of summer for a good cause.
For two nights in early September, movies will return to the big screen at Port Hope’s former drive-in theatre, which closed in 2023, with four movies on the bill.
YMCA Northumberland is gearing up for the fundraising event, called “Encore at the Midway,” which takes place on Friday, September 5 and Saturday, September 6.
The two nights of movies are being dubbed as a special farewell celebration at the historic Midway Drive-In Theatre, located halfway between Cobourg and Port Hope at 2141 Theatre Road South.
Through their ticket purchases, movie-goers will support YMCA Northumberland’s Back on Track program, described as a transformative program that supports at-risk youth in need across Northumberland County.
“Our hope is that Encore at the Midway honours the legacy of the beloved drive-in, brings our community together to share an unforgettable weekend, and turns the moment into positive momentum for youth facing challenges in Northumberland,” Kathryn Harrison, director of marketing and philanthropy for YMCA Northumberland, told kawarthaNOW.
“Our best possible outcome would be to sell out both nights and exceed our fundraising goal of $50,000 for the YMCA Back on Track program,” Harrison added.
When the Midway Drive-In Theatre reopens for the event, it will be transformed into “a vibrant hub of entertainment and community spirit,” according to a media release.
Each night will include a double feature, with the films screening each night to be chosen by popular vote from the community, allowing Northumberland residents the chance “to help curate the final chapter of this beloved local landmark.”
On both nights, family-friendly films will start rolling around 8:15 p.m., with broad appeal movies following at approximately 10:30 p.m. Voting for the films is open now through Tuesday (July 15).
On Friday night, two “golden era favourites” will be shown. The options for the early show are the musical fantasies The Wizard of Oz (1939) and Mary Poppins (1964) and the animated adventure The Jungle Book (1967). The options for the late show are the thriller adventure Jaws (1975), the sports drama Rocky (1976), and the musical comedy Grease (1978).
On Saturday night, two “blockbuster classics” will screen, with the options for the early show the horror comedy Ghostbusters (1984), the sci-fi comedy adventure Back to the Future (1985), and the animated musical The Lion King (1994). The options for the late show are the action adventure Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), the sci-fi adventure Jurassic Park (1993), and the action adventure Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
As of July 8, close to 500 votes had already been cast, Harrison noted.
Doors will open early, and live local bands, food trucks, and other surprise activities will be part of the non-alcoholic event.
Each ticket purchase includes admission for one carload to all the festivities, as well as access to both features and complimentary popcorn while supplies last. With a capacity of 400 vehicle spots available per night, organizers encourage people to grab their tickets early when they are available.
“Encore at the Midway is more than just a movie night — it’s a celebration of community, connection, and the power of giving back,” said Eunice Kirkpatrick, CEO of YMCA Northumberland, in a statement.
“With the support of our sponsors and the community who join us to share this special time together, we’re helping youth across our region feel seen, supported, and set up for success.”
YMCA Northumberland is giving a shout-out to presenting sponsor, BIN-IT Ltd. and CUT-IT Ltd., for their provision of the venue and additional support for running the event. The community festivities are made possible as a result of a partnership with local Rotary Clubs of Cobourg and Port Hope and Northumberland Sunrise, the release noted.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available for local businesses and organizations to lend their support to the event, and ultimately, youth in Northumberland.
For updates about the event, to vote for the movies, and to purchase tickets when they are available, visit ymcanrt.org/encore.
