The days are numbered for fans of drive-in theatres in Metro Vancouver.
The Twilight Theatre in Langley has announced its final season begins this weekend, Feb. 16, after efforts to save the venue fell through.
"Reopening for our final season," reads a post from the outdoor theatre, advertising screenings of Madame Web and Anyone But You.
For the first time in decades, Metro Vancouver will be without a permanent drive-in theatre when it shuts down later this year. Drive-in theatres were commonplace across B.C. decades ago, but have all but disappeared in recent years (though the pandemic saw pop-up drive-ins return in some places).
When Twilight closes there will only be two permanent drive-in theatres in the province; one in Enderby and one outside of Prince George.
Drive-in no longer viable
The Twilight Theatre is unique in Vancouver, but rising costs mean its lease isn't being renewed.
Last year the business explained property taxes and lease costs would be pushing them out. While Langley's mayor and others discussed trying to save it, it wasn't feasible.
"Over our off-season, we made a last-ditch effort to save the drive-in and see if our landlord would give us a lease extension. However, they were still wanting a 2.4x rent increase," they write in a post.
That's made the business no longer viable, they add.
"As such, 2024 will definitely be the last year for the drive-in," they write.
With files from Allie Turner
