Jurassic Hit Harrisburg enjoys pop-up drive-in theater

HARRISBURG - Quite a few people showed up at the drive-in theater Friday night.

It may be noted that a drive-in theater hasn't existed in Saline County for a number of years.

As a way to have an activity for people that also would encourage social distancing measures, Harrisburg rented an 18-foot inflatable movie screen and paid for the right to screen "Jurassic Park" at the city's property on North Veterans Drive. The property is an empty field the city keeps mowed.

"I'm thrilled with how many people are here," Harrisburg Mayor John McPeek said prior to the screening. "I was worried we might not have 15 cars show up."

Those attending were required to remain in their vehicles. Some people backed pickup trucks into place and watched from the beds.

Audio was broadcast over a short-range FM transmitter.

Alex Watkins, economic and community development coordinator for the city, said the event was made possible by contributions from sponsors Richard Clark, Southern Illinois Inflatables, Steam Cafe, Mancave Barbershop and John's Wholesale.

A future drive-in movie night is planned for October, with the 1993 film "Hocus Pocus" as the planned feature.