Sacramento 6 Drive-In hosts free family-friendly movie night. Here’s when
The glow of the big screen. Lawn chairs under the stars. A car radio turned just right. For longtime moviegoers, the drive-in is a summer ritual. For first-timers, it’s a chance to rediscover a classic American outing — and this Thursday, it won’t cost a thing.
On Thursday evening, the West Wind Sacramento 6 Drive-In is opening its gates to the public for a free movie night, offering families and film lovers a nostalgic and cost-free way to close out the summer.
Located at 9616 Oates Drive, just off Highway 50 and Bradshaw Road, the Sacramento 6 is the region’s only remaining drive-in theater. Twice a year, the theater hosts a complimentary screening night as a thank-you to longtime patrons — and a welcome to first-time visitors.
“Load up the car, bring the lawn chairs and blankets,” said Nancy Crane, vice president of operations for West Wind Drive-Ins. “Enjoy a big-screen night out that’s actually affordable.”
The lineup includes several recently released, family-friendly blockbusters: “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Jurassic World: Rebirth,” “Lilo & Stitch,” “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” “Superman” and “The Minecraft Movie.”
Crane said the movie selection was curated to appeal to a wide audience, especially families looking to catch up on recent releases they may have missed.
“We’re opening up our Drive-Ins, as we do a few times every year, to thank our loyal customers and invite those who have not yet experienced the drive-in to give it a try,” Crane said.
In addition to the screenings, the evening will include kid-friendly games, activities and entertainment before the films begin. Gates open at 6 p.m., with showtime scheduled for 8 p.m.
Early arrival is encouraged, as parking is first-come, first-served and capacity is limited. Guests are advised to arrive at least an hour before the show to ensure entry and access to concessions.
Then you can sit back, “relax in a lawn chair and a blanket and enjoy your movie under the stars and moonlight,” Crane said.
The Sacramento 6 Drive-In has operated for decades, outlasting many of its California counterparts as indoor multiplexes became the norm. But in recent years, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, drive-ins have seen a resurgence among families looking for outdoor, low-cost entertainment.
This story was originally published September 17, 2025 at 12:07 PM.
