Categories: Lifestyle

Alberta’s only permanent drive-in movie theatre is in an adorable small town

The days are getting longer and the nights are getting hotter. The sunniest season of the year is just around the corner, and there’s nothing more quintessentially summer in Alberta than a night at the High River Drive-In movie theatre.

The Sunset Drive-In

Located less than an hour south of Calgary, the Sunset Drive-In is truly one of a kind.

As the only permanent, non-profit theatre of its kind, this must-visit is well-known for its diverse selection of films, themed double features, and occasionally, a film-themed photo op. 

From Mean Girls and Moana to classics like Castaway and Indiana Jones, each year has a little something for everyone. Luckily, 2025 will be no exception.

The best part? The idea family outing or date night spot will do some good.

The idea behind High River’s Sunset Drive-In is to open the drive-in to charities to host, with half of the proceeds going to those charities and the other half to pay for the equipment and improvements on the site,” it explains on its website.

“The gentlemen spearheading this blast back to pop culture, are local businessmen and partners: Roger Hamel and Wes Shaw. The group also hopes the drive-in will help drive more economic activity into the area.”

When to visit

Interested in checking it out?

While the exact date has yet to be confirmed, the Sunset Drive-In is expected to reopen in August. 

Movie start times will coincide with the official time of sunset, and admission for each vehicle will cost $40.

While in town, check out one of the many popular filming locations, which you may recognize from Heartland and Superman II, or visit the Museum of Highwood.

There are also a ton of restaurants, hiking trails, and the Sheppard Family Park, a former farm with 13 acres where you can have picnics and enjoy historical architecture.

It’s a pretty cool place with plenty to do, Alberta, so plan ahead.

As for the drive-in, we’ll keep you updated.

It won’t be long until we get showtimes and a big day!

Enjoy and happy exploring!

The High River Sunset Drive-In

When: August 2025
Where: 64137 – Highway 543 East, High River, Alta.
Cost: $40 per vehicle

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