Park Up DC Drive In Movies - Family Friendly Social Distancing Activity
Hi Curl Friends! Can you believe it's already mid July!!! Like where has time gone? I feel like the days are starting to just be one big blur, so when my girlfriend provided my family with free tickets to Park Up DC, I could not resist the opportunity to get my kids out of the house. On top of getting my family out of the house, I was excited that we could stay safe in our car practicing social distancing while enjoying a family movie. Park Up DC was a clear win-win in my books.
If you’re unfamiliar, Park Up DC is Washington DC’s one and only drive-in movie and live event pop-up featuring a 45ft HD digital LED screen. The experience brought back fond childhood memories of me going to the drive-in movies with my family in Oceanside, California. My mom would pack dinner and snacks and my sister and I would be so excited to watch a movie in our car. As Pinterest ideas of the perfect drive-in movie snacks, signs, and car decorations filled my head, I became extremely excited to create my childhood memory with my own children. Well, I ended up having a full day of work meetings and couldn’t go to the store to get supplies and snacks for a Pinterest worthy experience. I ended up rushing to Wawa, grabbed some popcorn, candy, and drinks, and rushed to RFK Stadium. While a small part of me is disappointed in providing what I thought was a “simple” experience, my sons ended up having so much fun. Once again, my kids taught me another motherhood lesson:
“Kids don’t need elaborate Pinterest set-ups to have a great time”
Overall, we enjoyed our family date night watching Jurassic Park at Park Up DC. You’re probably wondering if I would take my family again, and the answer is YES! It's a COVID safe, and inexpensive family outing that you can create a wonderful family memory. Keep reading for my approved Mom Tips and answers to common questions.
Shauniece’s Top Tips
Arrive 30 minutes early to ensure a great parking spot.
Park backwards, open your trunk, and let the kids camp out. They’ll love it.
Plan your family experience ahead of time. Make it a special memory
Pack a few extra blankets just in case it gets chilly.
Bring a few extra lawn chairs for adults because sitting in the trunk is uncomfortable.
Order from food trucks before or as soon as you arrive.
There’s no alcohol allowed on the premises, so drink before you come.
General Information
What is Park Up DC?
Park Up DC is Washington DC’s one and only drive-in movie and live event pop-up featuring a 45ft HD digital LED screen.
Is it COVID-19 Safe?
Yes, Park Up DC is EXTREMELY COVID-19 safe. The event staff are very well trained in social distancing and ensured that everyone stayed in their vehicle. Actually, attendees must stay in their vehicle and can only get out to use the restroom. When out of the vehicle, one must wear a mask. I actually had to walk to the food truck, and was asked to get back into my car. I also saw staff remind customers to wear their mask to the restroom.
Where is Park Up DC located?
Park Up DC is located at RFK Stadium in Washington, DC.
What are the Hours of Operations?
Movies will be shown Thursdays through Sunday, throughout July 17 until October 2020. There’s three movie times at:
Early - 7:00pm
Primetime - 10:00pm
Late night: 12:00am
Are Tickets Sold Onsite?
No, tickets are ONLY sold online. So be sure to order your ticket online here before you go.
How Much Are Tickets?
Ticket prices range from $29 to $45 per vehicle and include options for first come, first serve, and reserved parking. My advice is to purchase the first come, first serve ticket since the parking lot was big enough to see the screen from almost anywhere. Save yourself a few coins by arriving at least 30 minutes early to ensure a great spot.
Is This a Family Only Event?
No, not at all. Everyone of all ages can attend. I saw couples with newborns, couples without kids, teenagers, whole entire families, and even single people as well.
What About Food? Are There Concessions? Can I Bring My Own Snacks?
Yes, there are concessions. In fact, there was a &Pizza on site taking mobile orders. Since this was the opening day, &Pizza was the only food truck, but I hear that Park Up DC is adding more food trucks. You can order directly from your phone and an &Pizza employee will bring your order to your car. You can absolutely bring your own snack and food which should be eaten in your car.
For more information on Park Up DC, visit their website at https://www.parkupdc.com/