In Montreal, we have a romantic vision of summer, informed by soft creams, fireflies and open-air cinemas…
In addition to cinemas under the stars in the parks this summer, ciné-ruelles organized between neighbors and long evenings deconstructing just-released films on the balcony with friends, you can have the ultimate summer cinema experience: the drive-in cinema – or ciné-parc.
The drive-in cinema of Saint-Hilaire
Mont-Saint-Hilaire is a small town on Montreal’s South Shore, a 45-minute drive away. You can get there by train, with Exo line 13 departing from Gare Centrale (near Bonaventure metro station).
The city’s drive-in was opened in 1972, one of the first in Quebec. To this day, it’s the only classic drive-in on Montreal’s South Shore.
When you’re there, it’s easy to imagine what it was like in the ’70s, smelling the gasoline and buttered popcorn, and hearing the laughter, sighs and screams of horror at the selection of films on the big screen.
The films are presented, as they were back then, two by two, one on each screen…
Modern programming, old-fashioned look
The drive-in opens at sunset, showing a series of epic films and horror movies perfect for watching semi-recumbent on a wool blanket, with a thermos of tea, a packet of twizzlers and a popcorn bucket.
We go with little plastic chairs, a pickup with room to sit in the back, a vintage Mustang convertible for the cool ones…
This summer, you’ll be able to see the new Jurassic World, Meghan 2.0, Destination Ultime and F1 (among others…).
Practical info
Where? 800 Chemin du Ciné-Parc, Mont-Saint-Hilaire
When? Every summer evening, starting at sunset
How much? Wednesday to Monday, $12.50 per person or $30 per car, free for children 10 and under / Tuesday, $7.50 per person or $30 per car, free for children 10 and under