The first drive-in theater opens in Camden, New Jersey.

Drive-in theaters first emerged in the United States during the early 1930s as a creative way to combine automobiles and entertainment. The first patented drive-in theater was opened by Richard Hollingshead in Camden, New Jersey, in 1933. Hollingshead experimented with different projection and sound techniques in his driveway before developing the idea into a business. His invention allowed families to watch movies from the comfort of their own cars, making cinema more accessible and convenient for many Americans. Early drive-ins advertised themselves as family-friendly attractions where people could enjoy films without worrying about noisy children disturbing other viewers.

The popularity of drive-in theaters grew rapidly after World War II, especially during the 1950s and 1960s. As car ownership increased and suburban communities expanded across the United States, drive-ins became a major part of American culture. Many theaters featured large outdoor screens, concession stands, playgrounds, and double-feature movies that attracted teenagers, couples, and families alike. At their peak, there were over 4,000 drive-in theaters operating across the country. They became symbols of postwar leisure and reflected the growing importance of automobiles in everyday American life.

Despite their success, drive-in theaters began to decline during the 1970s and 1980s. Rising land values made the large plots of property less profitable for theater owners, while indoor multiplex cinemas offered clearer picture quality and more reliable sound systems. The introduction of home video technology, cable television, and later streaming services also reduced attendance. Although most drive-ins closed, a small number have survived and continue to operate today as nostalgic reminders of mid-century American culture. In recent years, drive-ins experienced renewed interest during the COVID-19 pandemic because they allowed people to enjoy movies while remaining socially distanced.