In what can be considered a truly American celebration, MLB is partnering with several drive-in theaters across the country, including one in the Chicago suburbs, for an all-day Fourth of July event celebrating the United States’ 250th birthday.
The league selected McHenry Outdoor Theater as one of four locations for its MLB Summer Drive-In, offering a nostalgic and unique way to celebrate America’s birthday. Festivities include a showing of “The Sandlot,” the baseball-centric coming-of-age sports comedy film.
Afterward, baseball fans will get the opportunity to catch the Chicago Cubs take on the St. Louis Cardinals on the big screen. Plenty of entertainment is planned, including a Play Ball zone with baseball-themed activities, lawn games, Ballpark Bites concessions and Keepsake Dugout fan experiences and collectibles.
The night will wrap up with a fireworks display.
“Bring your family, friends, blankets, and team spirit for an unforgettable day of baseball, nostalgia, and community,” the MLB said on the experience’s Eventbrite page.
McHenry Outdoor Theater owner Scott Dehn said the event is likely “at the top” of those he’s hosted, noting it has required the most planning.
“We’ve been waiting for the day that we could announce this, and it’s here, so now we’re safe to be excited publicly,” Dehn said in an interview posted on Facebook with theater marketing director Joe Cicero.
Cicero echoed the excitement.
“The fact that we’ve been talking about the Sox and the Cubs and then all of the sudden Major League Baseball is like, ‘Hey we want to show ‘The Sandlot’ and then show a Cubs and Cardinals game and shoot some fireworks off, how do you guys feel about that?’ It was like the easiest yes ever.”
The full schedule can be found below:
- 4 p.m: Gates open
- 5 p.m.: Movie screening: The Sandlot
- 7 p.m.: Saint Louis Cardinals @ Chicago Cubs
- 9:15 p.m.: Fireworks
Additional information, including a list of frequently asked questions, can be found here.
As of Sunday night, tickets were sold out, according to the Eventbrite page. However, all hope isn’t lost for those wanting to attend.
The theater is giving out carload passes through a contest on its website.
