By Stephen Smoot
The rumors of the demise of the American drive-in theater have been greatly exaggerated — at least in Pendleton County, West Virginia.
Four years ago, Fox Business ran a story called “Why Did the Drive-In Movie Industry Die?” Britannica’s online encyclopedia says that only 10 percent of the peak number of 4,000 United States drive-ins are still in operation.
But the area’s own Warner’s Drive-In is doing quite well, thank you very much.
In 2023, Warner’s averaged 40 cars per showing. This year, so far, that average has rocketed up to 86, making for what Jessica Basagic calls “a significant increase in cars per night.” On one recent Saturday, officials with the theater counted 178 vehicles on the grounds.
Credit first and foremost lies in “a working board who puts forth 110 percent of their time to come and volunteer when needed.” That board helped to win grant funding for a new and modern restroom facility and other fundamentals that elevate the experience.
Another value added to the movie experience lies in the food. Unlike most theaters, Warner’s offers a full slate of food at their concession stand. “As of July 27,” Basagic shared, “280 pounds of homemade chili made by my mother, Brenda Warner, has gone out the snack bar doors.” That one delicacy alone “has become a hit in the snack bar and many patrons come back for seconds.”
“When you now mention the snack bar, the first words out of our customers’ mouths are ‘wow, that homemade chili is out of this world!’” she added. Other options include hamburgers, hot dogs, and perfectly prepared crinkle cut French fries.
It is often said that many go to Warner’s Drive-In on their open nights just to enjoy dinner.
Another draw to Warner’s comes from its unique mountain and valley setting. Sunsets throw a warm glow on the valley walls as darkness comes. Also, as Basagic noted, “We have had many nights with the full moon glowing behind the screen to make the perfect drive-in experience.”
The board also worked to select a slate of movies that would entertain the widest possible number of patrons on each weekend. Basagic said, “I give a lot of credit to the movie studios for producing some really good movies in 2024.”
“Twisters,” shown over four nights and two weekends, brought in 1,446 patrons and 582 cars. “Inside Out” was seen by 1,154 customers who came in 368 cars. “Garfield” ran for one weekend and attracted 540 viewers in 183 cars.
“That is a lot of foot traffic on our grounds!” Basagic exclaimed. She went on to share that “it’s incredible to drive by and look at how many cars pack themselves into each row to find that perfect spot to watch the movie.”
Warner’s will feature both fun and films into the fall. “We will be hosting our annual trunk or treat movie event this year on Saturday, Oct. 19,” said Basagic, emphasizing that “this will be a free one night movie event for the public.” Warner’s Drive-In will encourage local businesses and community organizations “to participate in this family fun event by decorating their trunks and passing out candy.”
Other attractions that night will include face painting for a fee, homemade cotton candy from a local vendor, a limited snack bar menu, and “a spectacular spooky movie” that will be announced soon.
The theater, known officially as Warner Drive-In Cultural Resource Center, has even bigger plans for next season. Once the 2024 season concludes, work will commence on a stage to host live music, theater, and other possible events in addition to the popular slate of movies.
