It's official: these are the 8 best drive-in events to book this summer

300% more drive-in events were listed on EventBrite last month.

With UK government restrictions in place until at least June 21st, it's probably no surprise that there was an 300% increase in the number of drive-in events listed last month, according to EventBrite.

They've been growing in popularity for years - people seem to love the highly Americanised concept of pulling up to a movie in your car and watching from your own vehicle.

And, fun fact: drive-in events now span far more than just your traditional cinema option, offering comedy sets, karaoke options, bingo nights and even church services, too.

“We noticed last year that in most months the terms ‘drive-in’ and ‘outdoor cinemas’ were the most searched-for event formats on our site,” said Eventbrite’s Sebastian Boppert. “They’re becoming increasingly popular again now as people look to get out and about again.”

Between March and December 2020, the number of drive-in events on ticketing and events platform Eventbrite grew more than 50-fold, with over 2,000 drive-in events for more than 125,000 people. Drive-in cinema events were consistently, month after month, the most searched for event type on Eventbrite in the UK last year.

“Drive-in events are perfect for those people who want to cautiously come out of lockdown, enjoying entertainment, with the very clear social distancing measures that come from being in your own vehicle.” said Boppert.

While you're here, check out our guides to the best rooftop bars, outdoor gyms and outdoor swimming pools, too. Ready to book your own drive-in event now? Keep reading.

8 drive-in events to book for summer

1. The Luna Drive-In Cinema

What? Fancy catching your favourite movie from the comfort of your car? We thought you might. Book any of Luna Cinema's summer screenings for in-car speaker boxes, high def outdoor screens, and some seriously stunning backdrops.

Where? Blenheim Palace, Harewood House, Knebworth House, and Tatton Park.

When? Throughout summer - check the Luna Drive-In site for more details.

2. The Drive In

What? Another London drive in cinema, sure, but the main difference from the Luna Cinema is that The Drive In plays new releases, rather than old-school classics. They've also got a whole range of different events listed and available to book on, from live streamed stand up comedy to musical sing-a-longs.

Where? They're located just off the North Circular (A406) at Troubadour Meridian Water, Harbet Road, London, N18 3QQ.

When? All summer - check out the The Drive In site for more info.

3. Cinestock Indoor Drive-In Cinema

What? If you're further down south than London, check out Cinestock, Brighton's Drive-In cinema offering. As with the London offerings, they screen far more than just films: expect comedy sets, live music, theatre and more. Oh, and did we mention you can watch it all from your car?

Where? Brighton

When? Throughout the summer. Head to the Cinestock site for more information.

4. Four Wheel Events

What? This isn't a drive-in cinema, but instead, a drive-in offering comedy shows, talks, music sets and more. Plus, they'll deliver whatever food and drink takes your fancy on the menu direct to your car. We're in.

Where? London

When? Throughout summer, check the Four Wheel Events site for more details.

5. @ The Drive-In

What? Picture the scene: you're sat in your car, watching Grease, head-to-toe in fancy dress that you just won a prize for. Sound good? With delicious food delivered via staffers on roller skates, too, this one's sure to be fun.

Where? Newcastle and more.

When? Dates for the summer TBC. Check out the @ The Drive In website for more information.

6. The Alfresco Theatre 

What? From the duo behind Pub in the Park comes The Alfresco Theatre, an assortment of live shows and movies all with the option of tasty one-off dishes created by some of the UK's best chefs. Think Tom Kerridge, Rick Stein, Jason Atherton, Paul Ainsworth, Atul Kochhar and more.

Where? Tunbridge Wells, Bath, Henley & Marlow, Warick, St Albans and West London.

When? All summer long. Check out The Alfresco Theatre site for more info.

7. Loxwood Drive In

What? Another big screen drive-in opportunity, this time from Loxwood Drive In for just £20 per car. They've got a burger shack offering hot meals and popcorn, too, and plenty of staff on hand to help with any questions you may have - at a social distance, of course.

Where? Loxwood Meadow, Loxwood, West Sussex, RH14 0AL

When? All summer long. Head to the Loxwood Drive In site for more information.

8. The Parking Lot Social

What? Calling itself an 'amazing, new touring experience which packs a load of exciting entertainment into one incredible night out', The Parking Lot Social sounds right up our street. Think relaxed movie screenings and more immersive and interactive entertainment, like karaoke. Fun.

Where? Aberdeen, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Dundee.

When? All summer long. Check out The Parking Lot Social site for more info.