The number one mistake people make at a drive-in is underestimating how cold it gets after sunset. Even on a warm day, temperatures can drop 15 to 20 degrees by the time the second movie starts. Dress for that.
The General Rule: Layers
Drive-ins are outdoor events that start in the evening and end late at night. You’ll go from comfortable to chilly in the span of a few hours. Layers let you adjust without being stuck in either a tank top or a winter coat.
A good baseline: whatever you’d wear during the day, bring something warmer on top.
Spring and Fall (April, May, September, October)
These are the trickiest months. Daytime highs might be in the 60s or 70s, but by 10 PM you could be in the 40s or 50s.
- Jeans or long pants (not shorts)
- T-shirt with a hoodie or fleece jacket
- Closed-toe shoes (the ground can be dewy or muddy)
- Bring a heavier jacket in the car just in case
- A beanie or warm hat if you run cold
Summer (June, July, August)
Summer nights are more forgiving, but they still cool down. The bigger issue in summer is bugs.
- Shorts or jeans, whatever’s comfortable
- T-shirt or lightweight long sleeves (long sleeves help with mosquitoes)
- Sandals are fine if the lot is paved, but sneakers are safer on gravel
- Light hoodie or flannel for later in the night
- Bug spray on exposed skin
What Not to Wear
There’s no dress code at a drive-in. Nobody cares what you look like. But a few things to avoid for comfort:
- All white if you’re sitting outside on the ground. Drive-in lots are grass or gravel, and things get dirty.
- Just a t-shirt with no backup layer. You will get cold.
- Heels or dress shoes. The ground is uneven and often dark. Stick to flat, comfortable shoes.
What About Blankets?
Blankets aren’t clothing, but they’re the most important thing you can bring. Keep one or two in the car year-round. They work for sitting on the ground outside, wrapping up in your car, or draping over your legs in a lawn chair. A thick blanket can make up for under-dressing.
If You’re Sitting Outside Your Car
Many people set up lawn chairs next to their car. If that’s your plan, dress a notch warmer than you think you need to. You won’t have the car’s shelter from wind, and you’ll be sitting still for two to three hours.
Long pants, a warm top layer, and socks with closed shoes will keep you comfortable. Bring a blanket for your lap.
Bottom Line
Comfort beats style at a drive-in. Dress in layers, bring a blanket, and expect it to be colder than you think. The rest will take care of itself.
Ready to find a drive-in near you? Browse our directory of every operating drive-in theater in the country.
