MIDDLE RIVER, Md. — For 70 seasons, Bengie's All-American Drive-In Theatre has been bringing people together under the stars to enjoy movies on what is billed as the largest outdoor movie screen in the United States.
As the sun sets in Middle River, cars drive into the iconic theater, where families gather for double features and a nostalgic movie-going experience that has become increasingly rare.
"It's a lost art, it really is," said owner D. Vogel.
'It's a lost art': Bengies Drive-In Theatre celebrates 70 seasons of movie magic in Middle River
For many patrons, Bengies is more than a theater. It's a family tradition passed down through generations.
"My dad used to work here way back when, so I've been coming here since I was 6, 7 years old," said Alex Dawson, a longtime visitor. "The first [movie] I remember was probably High School Musical 2."
Frank Thompson of Baltimore City has been bringing his whole family out to Bengie's for years.
"It's something about being outdoors; it's different," Thompson said. "We can sit in the flatbed, or we'll sit out here like this and enjoy the movies."
Aside from transitioning from film to digital projection in 2013, much of Bengie's has remained unchanged over the past seven decades, including playing the Star-Spangled Banner before every show.
"You look at that, that was designed by Jack K. Vogel, my dad," Vogel said. "If you look at that, it's perfect. The lines, the slanted roof and all that, they all line up to that screen."
It was named number four in USA Today's list of the top drive-ins in the country. The theater has remained in the Vogel family since it first opened. D took over operations about 40 years ago.
"I'm the luckiest guy in America," Vogel said. "When I took this drive-in in 1998, I never expected it to survive. It was my goal, but there were others still around and the last man standing did not seem even possible."
Over the years, opportunities have arisen to move on from the business, but Vogel has continued operating the theater from spring through fall, rain or starry night.
"It's just a genuine love for the movie business," he said. "People that have been in it for a short while, it'll get into your blood and you don't want to leave it. There's something that comes over me when we flip on that microphone, and I'm about to greet the crowd."
So he plans to keep the films rolling at an affordable price.
"You go to the indoor theater, and you get a large popcorn, a drink and a piece of candy and you're over $21," Vogel said. "In here, no, not at all."
Customers say the theater remains an important asset for the community.
"I think it's wonderful, I think it's good for the area, and I'm glad he keeps it going," Thompson said.
Others hope the theater's legacy continues for decades to come.
"I hope it stays here forever," Sierra Evans said. "We were just talking about that we hope it gets to the 100th year."
Bengies will continue showing movies through the fall as part of its 70th anniversary season. They're also selling commemorative pins and t-shirts to mark the milestone. The theater is also planning an all-night movie marathon during Labor Day weekend.
Tickets are $12.50 for adults and $7.50 for children above 4. Click here for more information.
