A Halloween Spooktacular at the Southington Drive-In

A year ago, members of the Southington Drive-In committee were disappointed as snow downed power lines and left the community devastated the night they were scheduled to celebrate the first-ever Halloween Spooktacular. A year later, Hurricane Sandy threatens to traverse the east coast – but it won’t arrive in time to rain on the parade.

The Southington Drive-In is preparing for a day of celebration and fun as they get set for the Halloween Festival this Saturday.

“There are so many opportunities for everyone, of every age,” said Dawn Miceli, volunteer and member of the drive-in committee. “We are really looking forward to seeing everyone out to come celebrate with us on Oct. 27.”

“For a one-time admission price, $10 a carload for Southington residents and $13 a carload for non-residents, families will enjoy a haunted hay ride, hay climb, pumpkin painting, live music by Southington's-own Hard Water, face painting by the beloved Valentine the Clown, a mini touch-a-truck by Southington volunteer firefighters and so much more!”

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The sun won’t have to set for the festivities to begin, with things kicking off at 2 p.m. with STEPS providing hayrides, Southington Fire Department Volunteer Engine Co. 1 providing a touch-a-truck opportunity, and carved pumpkins being gathered for a judged contest.

At 5 p.m., children will be invited to partake in a special “trunk or treat” program that will allow them to go with parents car-to-car and fill their sacks with candy. At 5:45 p.m., they will also be able to show off their costumes in a costume parade.

The night ends with not one, but two movies: the family-friendly “Monster House” at 6 p.m. and a more adult-oriented showing with “Halloween” at 8 p.m.

“We wanted to provide something for everyone,” Miceli said. “This gives families an opportunity to enjoy a fun feature and still gives adults in the area a chance to enjoy some Halloween entertainment of their own.”

But the night will also be special for the Southington Drive-In for another reason. The only municipal-owned drive-in within the United States .

Russ Martin, facility manager for Enormity Pictures, said it’s a great story and he’s looking forward to the opportunity to showcase Southington’s hidden gem.

"It's the only drive-in I know of that a town has bought to preserve," said Russ Martin, a member of Enormity Pictures LLC. "The town buying this is a real nice story."

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