Taking a date from Kelowna out to the Starlight Drive-In Theatre in Enderby, BC is one of those classic Okanagan summer experiences that feels a little nostalgic, a little adventurous, and very memorable. It turns a simple movie night into a road trip under the stars, with rolling valley views, small-town charm, and a double feature waiting at the end.

The drive itself is part of the date. From Kelowna, you’ll head north on Highway 97 through Lake Country and Vernon, then continue east onto Highway 97A toward Enderby. The trip is roughly 55 to 65 minutes depending on traffic and where you start in Kelowna (Starlight Drive-In). It’s an easy highway drive, but it’s worth leaving a bit early so you’re not rushing—especially in summer when weekend traffic can build near Vernon and Armstrong. A good rule of thumb is to plan for about 1.5 hours total with stops, snacks, or scenic detours.

Once you arrive just south of Enderby, you’ll spot the Starlight Drive-In at 5341 Highway 97A. It’s hard to miss once the sun starts setting and cars begin lining up. Gates typically open about an hour before showtime, and arriving early gives you a better pick of parking spots since they’re first-come, first-served within your ticket tier. There’s a bit of an informal “arrival ritual” as cars pull in, tune their radios, and settle into their spaces—part tailgate, part movie night.

What makes the Starlight special is the experience, not just the film. It’s one of the last true drive-in theatres in British Columbia and features a massive outdoor screen with a double-feature format most nights (Starlight Drive-In). You’ll usually catch an earlier family-friendly film followed by a later feature once it gets darker. The audio is broadcast through FM radio, so you’ll need a working car stereo or a portable FM radio if you’re sitting outside your vehicle (Starlight Drive-In). Bluetooth speakers won’t work properly due to delay, so don’t rely on them.

For a date night, the setup is surprisingly romantic in a casual way. You can bring blankets, pillows, and snacks, or grab concessions when they open. Many couples back their car in, set up the trunk like a lounge, and watch the sunset before the movie starts. As night falls, the screen glows against the dark hills, and the whole valley feels a bit more quiet and cinematic.

A few practical tips make the night smoother. Dress in layers—Okanagan evenings can cool down quickly even after a hot day. Make sure your car battery is in good shape, since you may be sitting with the radio on for a couple of hours. And plan to stay for both movies if you’ve bought a double feature ticket; leaving early can be tricky once the cars are packed in.

The return drive back to Kelowna is peaceful and low-stress, often with that quiet post-movie feeling where you and your date just cruise through the dark highway, talking about the film and the experience.

In the end, the Starlight Drive-In isn’t just about what’s on screen—it’s about slowing down, sharing a simple adventure, and turning a short drive from Kelowna into a full evening you’ll actually remember.