Editorial : The Resurgence Of Drive-In Movies In Chicago
Photo Courtesy : Becca Mitsos
The year of 2020 has been one for the history books , and is still not done yet. This year has given us many unforeseen things such as stimulus checks, cancelation of some professional sport leagues’ seasons, and - more than ever before - remote opportunities to work at home.
Out of all the many unforeseen things the return of drive-in movies has been a pleasant surprise. Drive-in movies were known to be a popular event in the 1930s to 1970s, but are now making a comeback.
Many Chicagoans like Rafael Auffant, are loving the idea of going to a drive-in movie rather than a traditional movie theater. “I can pull my mask down and not be paranoid because going to a drive-in I feel safe and know social distancing is apparent,” Auffant stated.
Family and friends enjoying music played by DJ and local Chicago artist at ChiTogether drive-in.
Photo Courtesy : Becca Mitsos
Safe social distancing, entertainment, and fun games are not missed at all when visiting Chi-Togethers’ drive-in. Chi-Together is located right behind Soldier Field at 1410 South Lake Shore Drive. The experience I was able to receive from the staff before sitting down with the founder of Chi-Together, Tionna Van Gundy, was phenomenal. Driving into the event, I was greeted like I was at a family reunion. I was not able to see the smiles behind the mask, but I could definitely feel the warmth and gratitude from the staff.
Upon meeting Van Gundy, I was easily impressed with her professionalism, kindness, and hospitality. These characteristics from a leader is what makes for a phenomenal staff. “Hospitality is a service that is very important to me,” she explained.
Having a background in the hotel hospitality business has helped propel Van Gundy to new heights. She is the founder of two businesses rooted in hospitality and event planning, Fueledevents and Wedicity. The COVID-19 pandemic led to cancellations of several previously scheduled events for both companies; however, running the drive-in events have helped Van Gundy keep her staff employed.
“What makes Chicago so beautiful is the diversity in the arts, culture, and the people…This is what Chicago looks like, and I'm proud to say that this is represented at our drive-in.” -Van Gundy
Photo Courtesy : Becca Mitsos
“I'm proud that they are all working because if not they would be sitting at home without a paycheck,” Van Gundy said. “We have also been able to impact twelve Chicago businesses, 80 plus individuals, and we have given over 800 lbs. of food to the Chicago Food Depository.”
Plenty of great work has been done by having this drive-in, and Van Gundy doesn't believe COVID-19 will redirect how the business is going. “I think across the globe it will take awhile for everyone to get back to what we consider normal,” she said.
Until the time comes where we can all enjoy going back to a traditional movie theater, consider making a visit to Chi-Together, their drive-in has much to offer. For instance, imagine going to see a movie and before you see it there is a live DJ blasting your favorite hits, local Chicago artists ready to entertain you, and a food truck showcasing some great Chicago cuisine. If this event sounds fun check out more of their information here.
In addition to Chi-Together, another quality drive-in has sprouted up in the Pilsen area. This drive-in is called, ChiTown Movies. ChiTown Movies is located at 2343 South Throop Street.
This drive-in business is a part of the “ChiTown” business model. Owner Byrce Bowman said, “Necessity is the mother of invention. When the pandemic hit, we lost almost all revenue streams from ChiTown Futbol and ChiTown Grille and our employees were out of work.”
Movie goers enjoy classic Sandlot film at ChiTown Movies in Pilsen.
Photo Courtesy : Chicago Bucket List
Ultimately, this led Bowman and his team to get creative and think outside the box for the possibilities of continuing business in the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We had a huge attached parking lot on a quiet, dark street and said ‘why not a drive-in?’” Bowman said. “We quickly learned the business, re-tooled our employees’ job roles, and opened ChiTown Movies.”
Opening of ChiTown Movies has not just been beneficial to the staff and Bowman, but also to many Chicagoans around the area. Bowman shared with me that being in the Pilsen area has been great for ChiTown Movies. He stated, “We have been given the opportunity to collaborate with and celebrate Pilsen’s rich history and culture.”
“One example of this is that we are partnering with the Chicago Latino Theater Alliance to put on the Destinos al Aire festival in September,” Bowman stated.