Finger Lakes Drive-In Celebrates 62nd Birthday with Harry Potter Premiere

July 16, 2009- The Finger Lakes Drive In movie theater-- a local attraction near Auburn, NY-- celebrated 62 years of operation last night with party hats, noisemakers, cake, live entertainment, door prizes, and-of course, opening night of Harry Potter (The Half Blood Prince.)

The Finger Lakes Drive In opened on July 15^th, 1947 and continues to be a vital part of local history. Located right in the heart of the Fingerlakes Region in Central New York, the classic drive-in movie heater gives opportunity for grandparents (or even great grandparents) to bring young children to share experiences remembered from their own youth.

Senator Kevin Mullin (owner of the Finger Lakes Drive In for 15 years) met incoming cars by the gates bearing various party favors (including hats, posters, card games, leis, and more.) Among the door prizes given to each guest were "mystery gift certificates" sealed tightly in envelopes offering free concession treats or free admission for two to the movie theater.

The weather was perfect for such a grand celebration, all but the muddy ground. None the less, hundreds of local and loyal patrons sat in folding chairs and on picnic tables enjoying the 62^nd birthday cake, followed by a highly entertaining (and humorous) performance given by Moreland the Magician.

Following the comedy/ magic show, Moreland left the stage with a very true quote to all of the children in his audience. "Of all the movies you will see in your lifetime, you will not have any memories of where you watched those movies... Except for any movie that you watch right here, on this screen {pointing behind him} at the Finger Lakes Drive In!"

Parents all nodded in agreement at Moreland's closing words as he cleared the stage, making way for Starburner, another live performer who provided the audience with an impressive display of fire breathing.

Finally, guests returned to their cars (after stopping at the concession stand to stock up on refreshments) or blankets to watch the premiere of Harry Potter: The Half Blood Prince. After waiting two years for the release of this movie, it was yet another event worth celebrating.

Staff members of the Finger Lakes Drive In all dressed up as Harry Potter characters to celebrate the release of this long awaited film. For a taste of local history, please visit www.fingerlakesdrivein.com