Wantagh Chamber, Rhoads host drive-in movie at Wantagh Park

What started as a socially distanced, pandemic-friendly summer activity has grown into an August tradition for residents of the Wantagh-Seaford area.

Two years ago, as the first surge of the pandemic was slowing down, the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce and County Legislator Steve Rhoads were left scratching their heads at what safe and fun summer activities they could put together.

“Our thoughts were ‘what could we do outdoors, socially distanced, and family friendly?’” Rhoads said. “And then we settled on an outdoor movie, something we all grew up with. This was back in August of 2020.”

Rhoads and the Chamber decided on Wantagh Park for the venue, since it is a large, open space where cars can drive on the lawn without causing any damage to the property.

It was such a success that it continued into August of 2021, and now continues this year, with Top Gun kicking off the drive-in movies on August 3.

The event sold out on its first night, with 75 cars signing up to watch the movie. Initially, the cars had to be spread apart to ensure social distancing, but that is no longer the case, allowing for more cars to sign up.

The drive-in movie will continue every Wednesday night in August, at Wantagh Park.