Starlite Drive-In

Small, local businesses are a very big part of each and every community. They are what brings us a sense of uniqueness and connection. Most communities have a certain place, cuisine, or event that presents them as unique. In Amelia, there is a large variety of things that make us stand out. Some of the most popular being Skyline Chili, Marcella’s Doughnuts, and Larosa’s Pizza. These are a few of very many examples, however, perhaps the most remarkable is the Starlite Drive-In.6

The Starlite Drive-In Sign (Source: Starlite Drive-In Facebook Page)

The Starlite Drive-In is a local drive-in movie theater in Amelia, Ohio. The small business has been operating for 77 years, since 1947 and owned by Jerry Jackson. In 1968, Simon and Florence Groner bought the drive-in, as something to keep them busy after retirement. Little did they know that they would thrive, especially through hard times such as the pandemic. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, during the pandemic, people could not get out of the house often and socialize, this opened a big opportunity for this local drive-in. People would come to the drive-in and spend hours there before and after their movie, it gave them something to look forward to instead of being stuck inside.

Early Years of Starlite Drive-In (Source: Starlite Drive-In Facebook Page)

Just going to a local business is a great way to have a good time and socialize. According to the New York Film Academy, the majority of remaining drive-in movie theaters are located in Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania, with a little over 300 left in the country. With the rise of streaming services, people don’t go out to the movies as much anymore. This is why the Starlite Drive-In is an amazing place to visit; you can socialize and spend time outdoors with people you care about. That is something you can’t do on your couch.

View of the Whole Drive-In (Source: Starlite Drive-In Facebook Page)

As you can see, local businesses have an unimaginable impact on the community around them. The experience of the Starlite Drive-In will always be cherished by many. For however long it continues to run we will all enjoy the amazing memories they have helped us to create. It may seem like just a tiny little business but it is much more than that, it is an incredible place that gives families and friends a great time. This business helps us all to come together and enjoy ourselves even in the hardest times.

Starlite Drive-In Logo (Source: Starlite Drive-In Facebook Page)