By Paige Atwell
As we savor the last bits of summer, we’re left to wonder where the time has gone. Unfortunately, most of us had to rearrange or cancel a lot of our usual summer activities this year, but thanks to Franklin event management company AP Presents - there’s something new to look forward to that you can guarantee won’t get canceled due to COVID.
In the midst of everything going on in the world, AP Presents CEO Tom Atema, wanted to bring something new to the Franklin community to give people a safe, fun activity to enjoy outdoors. His solution was The Field at Franklin: a drive-in movie theatre that everyone can safely enjoy.
“There’s nothing like this in Franklin! And we’ve seen a HUGE excitement building for a local drive-in since it was announced,” said Trevor Rigsby, project manager for The Field at Franklin. “There seems to be a real hunger to get out of the house and do something as a family and, because of COVID concerns, the options are limited.”
Located behind Rolling Hills Community Church on Columbia Avenue, The Field at Franklin is, quite literally, a field in Franklin, and a giant one at that. Because of this, not only can the space accommodate plenty of people, but it also allows everyone enough room to safely spread out and social distance while still enjoying a movie together.
“The entire concept of the drive-in came about as a way to provide a safe option for people wanting to get out and do something fun in this season of COVID-19,” said Trevor.
So, aside from the obvious, what exactly makes The Field at Franklin experience different than going to a standard movie theatre? “You pay one price for a whole car of people and you get to bring in as much food as you want,” explained Trevor. “And in this season of uncertainty and anxiety, The Field is a safe option to still be able to watch a movie with your friends and family. We’re also aware that times are tough for some families, so we’re offering a ‘pay what you can’ option for those who have been hit hardest in this season.”
According to their website, The Field at Franklin aims to “provide our community with a place to come together, no matter your ability to pay, with a platform that has been around for years.” When visiting The Field at Franklin, guests can expect a smooth, easy and safe experience. Upon entry, cars will check in with an employee at the gate who will direct them to a designated spot. Cars are welcome to back into their spot or face the screen directly. Once parked, guests can either enjoy the movie from the inside of their car, in the trunk of their vehicles or bring lawn chairs and blankets to sit outside.
“We just ask that all guests park ten feet away from each other, stay with their vehicle and wear a mask if they walk around,” said Trevor.
As of now, a new movie will be featured every weekend with screenings on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. To operate safely and remain contact-free, tickets can only purchased online via their website. Some showings will include food trucks, so keep an eye out on their social media to find out which options and movies will be available each night. To learn more about The Field at Franklin or to purchase tickets, visit their website at fieldatfranklin.com. Also visit them on Instagram and Facebook @TheFieldAtFranklin, or on Twitter @FieldatFranklin.
