BENZIE COUNTY — The Cherry Bowl Drive-in Theatre in Honor first opened its doors in the 50’s. Many years and owners later, the new owners of the theatre are now opening for their very first season.
While opening a business usually takes a lot of thought, Mindi Jarman is a different story.
“Last year, when we drove by, there was a for-sale sign out front. And I looked at my husband, John, and I said, ‘John, let’s buy the drive-in,’” Jarman said. “It all kind of transpired from there. You know, we did a walk-through. We talked to Laura Clark, who is the previous owner. And everything fell into place. ”
Jarman was a preschool teacher before buying the Cherry Bowl, so everything has been a learning curve.
They worked quite a bit with the previous owner to learn how to run the theatre.
Jarmen said she has noticed an uptick in those interested in drive-in movies.
“It is a uniquely American experience, ” Jarmen said. “There has been a lot of interest, both in new drive-ins, but also people who are purchasing drive-ins, who are younger, who want to maintain the legacy and continue them for many years to come.”
The Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre opens at 7:30 p.m. on May 16.
They plan to open up with The Minecraft movie, and a throwback, The Goonies.