A beloved slice of Americana is roaring back to life in Glendale — and it’s bringing both nostalgia and innovation to LA’s entertainment scene. The long-shuttered Starlite Drive-In, which originally opened in 1963 and closed its gates in the early 2000s, has officially reopened this week after an extensive two-year renovation.
Now rebranded as Starlite 2.0, the drive-in merges old-school charm with cutting-edge tech. Guests can still pull up in their cars for a classic outdoor movie experience, but instead of crackling radio audio and grainy film reels, viewers enjoy crystal-clear 4K projection and surround sound via Bluetooth. The new digital ticketing system, retro-futuristic neon signage, and gourmet concessions menu (think truffle popcorn, vegan nachos, and boba milkshakes) complete the hybrid experience.
At the grand reopening, a double feature of Grease and La La Land drew hundreds of movie lovers dressed in everything from poodle skirts to pastel suits, celebrating the intersection of vintage culture and modern LA flair. Local musicians performed a pre-show set, and food trucks lined the parking lot to serve a late-night crowd that lingered long after the credits rolled.
The theater’s new owner, filmmaker and Glendale native Marcus Yoon, said his mission was to “bring community back to the screen — literally.” Starlite 2.0 plans to host weekly themed nights, indie film showcases, and even live podcast recordings under the stars.
As Los Angeles continues to reimagine how we gather and experience culture, the return of Starlite Drive-In proves that sometimes the best way forward is by taking a little ride into the past.