A happy, carefree part of childhood for many area residents is no more.
After close to four decades, the Midland Drive-In will no longer be operating, leaving families, teens and others without a welcome addition to their summer months.
The sometimes weekly pilgrimage to the drive-in located just off Highway 12 proved especially popular with young families thanks to its jovial atmosphere and reasonable entrance and concession prices.
Before the movies (normally a double-bill offering) would start, children could often be found playing ball, games or just excitedly running around in front of the giant blue-and-white screen while their folks sat on lawn chairs and chatted as dog owners took a tour of the grounds with their pups.
While MidlandToday reached out to the drive-in owners, a request for comment hasn’t yet been answered.
But on the company’s Facebook page, there’s the familiar Looney Tunes signature “That’s all Folks!” against a dark orange background saying ‘That’s all Folks!”’ and a further note explaining the decision to close.
“It is with extreme sadness and very heavy hearts that we write this post,” the note begins.
“After so much thought and consideration we, as a family have decided to close the Midland Drive-In. Unfortunately the building is starting to show it’s age and requires some major upgrades to continue to operate.”
The facility had once been part of a three-pronged option for movie-goers with the same family operating the drive-in as well as movie theatres in Penetanguishene and Midland.
The post continues: “It has also been a struggle over the years to not be given the opportunity to play movies on release due to having an indoor facility in the same town that feels we are competition.
“We want to take this time and thank all of our loyal customers that have passed through our gates in the last 37 years of business. And to our amazing staff....thank you from the bottom of our hearts for everything you have done to make every season an amazing one.
“And lastly...“Goodnight Dave and Paul. Wherever you are.”
The drive-in is now listed for sale at close to $600,000.