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The Midway Drive-In Theater in Minetto is set to conclude its 2025 season earlier than usual. Starting Friday, August 15, the theater will shift from operating five days a week to weekends only, with movies shown on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The final weekend of the season will be September 12, marking the end of the theater's 77th consecutive season.
Owner "Little" John Nagelschmidt Jr. cited health reasons and declining attendance as key factors in the decision to end the season early. Nagelschmidt, who has been managing the theater for nearly four decades, is scheduled for surgery on October 2 and requires a three-month recovery period. He plans to have a final surgery in February, aiming to be ready for the theater's reopening in May 2026.
Attendance has been notably lower this year, with Nagelschmidt attributing part of the decline to the New York State Fair, which often impacts business in late August. Despite the challenges, the theater will host its annual "Dusk to Dawn" show on Labor Day weekend and an early "Horrorfest" featuring "The Conjuring: Last Rites" from September 12-14.
Nagelschmidt expressed disappointment about not extending the season to Halloween, as is customary. He thanked patrons for their support and encouraged them to visit before the season ends. Admission prices are $10 for adults, $5 for children aged 7-11, and free for kids under 6.