North Market and Gateway Film Center will try to re-create an American classic this summer - a drive-in theater in the market's parking lot. Billing their effort as the "only downtown drive-in east of the Mississippi," the market and film center plan to show Toy Story, Ghostbusters and Jaws on a 30-foot screen on the north side of the market's parking lot during three events, beginning May 3.

North Market and Gateway Film Center will try to re-create an American classic this summer � a drive-in theater in the market�s parking lot.

Billing their effort as the �only downtown drive-in east of the Mississippi,� the market and film center plan to show Toy Story, Ghostbusters and Jaws on a 30-foot screen on the north side of the market�s parking lot during three events, beginning May 3.

�Drive-ins are incredible,� said Johnny DiLoretto, communication director for the film center, in a statement. �They�re a part of America�s movie past, but they�re nearly all gone. Our Downtown drive-in brings back this wonderful way to see movies but in an innovative way.�

�We want to expose families to a little bit of the past,� said North Market executive director Rick Harrison Wolfe. �Kids today are not that familiar with the concept of a drive-in. This is a fun way to experience history.�

Moviegoers who occupy one of the market�s 130 parking spots will tune in with their FM radios. Bleacher seating and remote speakers will be available for walk-ups.

Some North Market merchants are expected to sell food during the movies.

�Heck, yes, I�ll be selling my popcorn during the movies,� said Pam Tylka, owner of Pam�s Market Popcorn. Tylka plans to offer at least her Chicago Cheddar and Sweet and Salty popcorns, and likely a variety that is themed to each movie.

Toy Story will be shown on Saturday, May 3; Ghostbusters on Friday, June 13; and Jaws on Friday, July 25. Tickets will cost $18 per vehicle or $5 per pedestrian. The movies, which will begin at sundown (likely around 9 p.m.), will go on rain or shine.

�This is the perfect summer event and the perfect summer partnership,� said Chris Hamel, president of Gateway Film Center, in a statement.

mvanac@dispatch.com

@maryvanac