FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Staying safe at the drive-in
+ Is it safe to attend a drive-in screening?
Yes! Your safety at these events is DRIFF’s greatest priority. Here’s a rundown of what we’re doing to protect our audience:
- Contactless ticket sales and check-in
- Online COVID-19 pre-screening on the day of each event for all guests
- When leaving your vehicle to use the washroom, you need to wear a mask and stay at least 6’ from other humans
- Cars will be at least six feet apart, so you can roll down your windows and safely let in some fresh air
+ What will the COVID-19 screening look like?
The Town of Whitby has prepared a waiver that covers all the health and safety issues. Everyone with a ticket will receive a link to this waiver. It must be read, completed and submitted online the day of the event. Easy peasy, and comforting too, because you'll know everyone at the event has reported being in good health.
+ What happens if I don't see the email, or I forget to read and sign the COVID-19 waiver?
There will be a QR code at the entrance to the drive-in. You can scan this with your phone camera, read the waiver on your phone, and hit "submit" before you get to the ticket collector. Show the ticket collector the screen showing your submission was received.
+ Can I enjoy the screening from my pick-up truck bed, motorcycle, or convertible with the top down?
Yes! You can enjoy the screening under the stars as long as your car stereo is loud enough to hear from outside your vehicle.
+ I just got back from travelling outside of Canada. Can I attend a DRIFF drive-in screening?
Sorry, but no. If you have been outside of the country in the past 14 days, or have been advised by public health to to self-isolate for any reason, you cannot attend a DRIFF drive-in event. All attendees will be required to fill out a COVID-19 pre-screening questionnaire on the day of the event.
TIckets, vehicles, and other details
+ How much are tickets?
Tickets are $15 per vehicle. Your ticket entitles you to bring as many guests from your household as your car has seat belts!
+ How many people are allowed in a car?
You can have as many guests in your car as you have seatbelts.
+ What time do the screenings start? When should I arrive?
The films start at dusk.
But if you want to beat the line-up and secure a spot with a great view, the earliest arrival time is printed on your ticket. Park your vehicle in the perfect spot, then walk over to the plaza at Garden and Rossland. If you plan ahead, you can pick up some local take-out to enjoy before the show.
If you're not fussy about your location, you can arrive anytime between the "earliest arrival time" and the "latest arrival time" that's printed on your ticket.
+ What happens if it rains?
HD Outdoor, our screen provider, shows films rain or shine. They only cancel if the weather conditions are extreme. Check our website the day of the event for information.
+ What happens if a screening is cancelled?
If an event is cancelled because of COVID-19 shut down or severe weather, a full refund will automatically be processed.
+ What if I arrive after the “latest arrival” time that's on my ticket?
Sorry, but we cannot let you in and there will be no refund. A late arrival would disrupt the enjoyment of everyone else.
+ Can I leave during the screening?
Sorry, no (unless it’s an actual emergency). There’s just no way to manage an exit during the screening without spoiling the enjoyment of all the other people in attendance.
+ What happens if I develop symptoms, come into contact with someone with COVID-19, or test positive for COVID-19 prior to the screening?
You won’t be able to attend the screening, but please contact Karen at v-chair@driff.ca if you’re in this position.
+ My car has automatic running lights. What should I do?
Most running lights will turn off when you engage the emergency brake. Shut off your vehicle, set the emergency parking brake, then turn your vehicle back on in the “accessories” position. Before the movie starts, please do a "test" to ensure that this works, so as to ensure that your lights don't disturb others during the movie if you have to start your car (to recharge your battery, or turn on the A/C for a few minutes)
+ Are Shifting the Narrative screenings family friendly?
The films were not selected with young children in mind. While children are often welcome at DRIFF events, the films in this Shifting the Narrative program deal with adult themes and content that are unlikely to appeal to young viewers. If you have a young child you think will sleep during the show, they are welcome.
DRIFF acknowledges the support of Canada Council for the Arts.