FAQ

We’ve got answers to the things you’re wondering.

What is the Neptune Drive-In?

The Neptune Drive-In is a single-screen outdoor cinema on the shores of Shediac, New Brunswick. It has been a local landmark since the early 1960s and is now part of the Shediac Wonderland family of businesses. It seats 350 cars, runs a digital Ultra 4K projector (the premier setup in Atlantic Canada), and pairs every screening with the Morse et Marteaux BBQ Smokehouse. It is, by most accounts, a very good place to spend an evening.

Where are you located?

693 Main St, Pointe-du-Chêne, NB E4P 4Z9. If you can find the ocean, you can find us.

When is the season?

The Neptune Drive-In operates seasonally from spring through October. Normally, we aim for the week preceding Victoria Day, and we try to stay open until Halloween. Specific opening and closing dates are announced each year on our website and social media channels.

What nights do you show movies?

The Drive-In operates Friday through Sunday during May and June, Friday through Tuesday during July and August , and on Friday and Saturday during September and October. Check our website and social media for the current week’s schedule, as special screenings and bonus nights may be added throughout the season.

What time does the movie start

Gates and canteen open around 7:30 PM. The first feature begins at approximately 9:30 PM, though exact start time depends on when it gets properly dark. The sun sets on its own schedule; we merely follow.

Do you show double features?

Yes. Every screening night is a double feature. Two films for one admission. The second feature begins shortly after the first concludes.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

No. Tickets are sold at the gate upon arrival. We accept cash, debit, and major credit cards. There is no online pre-sale.

How does the sound work?

Audio is broadcast over FM radio. When you arrive, tune your car radio to the frequency posted on the screen (92.7FM). If you prefer not to run your car engine, bring a portable battery-powered radio. This will also save your car battery from the indignity of a post-movie boost.

Are there washrooms?

Yes. Washroom facilities are available on the grounds in the canteen building.

Where should I park?

Cars park in the front rows. Trucks, SUVs, and taller vehicles are directed to the rear rows so they do not block the view for others. Arrive early for the best spots. Staff will guide you.

Can I sit outside my car?

Yes. Many guests set up lawn chairs or blankets beside their vehicles. Please be considerate of your neighbours and keep your setup within your parking space. Do not block the view of vehicles behind you.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

You are welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. That said, the Morse et Marteaux BBQ Smokehouse is right here, and the brisket is worth the trip. We strongly encourage you to support our canteen.

What is Morse et Marteaux?

Morse et Marteaux is our on-site BBQ smokehouse, named after characters in Lewis Carroll’s works (keeping with the Shediac Wonderland tradition). The kitchen runs an authentic wood-fired Texas-style smoker. Think slow-cooked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, burgers, and scratch-made sides. The canteen opens at 7:30 PM when the gates do, so arrive hungry.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome at the Neptune Drive-In, provided they are leashed, well-behaved, and cleaned up after. Please be mindful of neighbouring vehicles. Not every guest shares your enthusiasm for your retriever, however justified that enthusiasm may be.

What if it rains?

The Neptune Drive-In operates rain or shine. You are in your car. You are already sheltered. Screenings are only cancelled in the event of dangerous weather conditions (severe electrical storms, high winds, etc.). Cancellations are announced on our social media.

Can I leave between features?

Yes. If the second feature is not to your taste, you are free to leave after the first film. Re-entry is not guaranteed on busy nights. You’re also welcome to come just for the second showing!

Do you show family-friendly movies?

We program a mix of family-friendly and adult-oriented films throughout the season. Our weekly schedule is posted in advance so you can plan accordingly. Double features are typically paired by audience (a family film followed by a later film, or two films of similar tone).

Is the Neptune Drive-In accessible?

The grounds are flat and accessible by vehicle. Our canteen and bathrooms are fully accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact us in advance and we will accommodate you to the best of our ability.

Do you show family-friendly movies?

What should I bring?

A car (obviously). A portable radio or fully charged car battery. Blankets or a light jacket for later in the evening when the maritime air remembers what it is. Bug spray in midsummer. Patience for the sunset. Cash or card for the gate and the canteen.

What items are not allowed?

The following are not permitted on the grounds: outside alcohol, illegal substances, fireworks or open flames, drones, and anything that produces excessive noise or light that would interfere with the screening. Headlights must be turned off once you are parked.

Can I use my headlights or interior lights during the movie?

Please do not. Headlights must be turned off once parked. Interior lights and phone screens at full brightness are discouraged during the screening. The screen is the only light we need.

What is Shediac Wonderland?

Shediac Wonderland is a collection of tourism and hospitality businesses in Shediac, NB. The family includes Le Moque-Tortue (a bistro), Adorable Chocolat (a chocolaterie), Morse et Marteaux BBQ Smokehouses, Le Griffon B&B, the Neptune Drive-In, and the Bazar Neptune (a summer Saturday market held on the same grounds). There is an Alice in Wonderland thread running through everything we do. Some of it is subtle. Some of it is not.

What else happens on the Neptune grounds?

The Neptune Drive-In grounds are also home to the Bazar Neptune (a curated Saturday market running July through August) and the Shediac Renaissance Faire (a two-day event in late August). These events take place during the daytime and do not conflict with evening screenings.

Who do I contact with questions?

Reach us at info@shediacwonderland.ca. You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @NeptuneShediac.

Private Events & Rentals

Can I rent the Neptune Drive-In for a private event?

Yes. The Neptune Drive-In is available for private screenings, corporate events, birthday parties, community gatherings, and other occasions. There is nothing quite like having a 350-car drive-in theatre to yourself.

What kinds of events can be hosted?

The venue is suited to private film screenings (your choice of movie, subject to licensing), corporate team outings, birthday or anniversary celebrations, community fundraisers, product launches, holiday parties, and anything else that benefits from a large screen and an open sky. If you can imagine it, we are happy to discuss it.

How many people can the venue accommodate?

The lot holds up to 350 vehicles. Actual guest capacity depends on the nature of your event and whether guests are in vehicles, seated on the patio, or both.

Is catering included?

Morse et Marteaux BBQ Smokehouse is available for event catering. Menu options, service style, and pricing are customized per event. Whether you want a full smokehouse spread or a simple canteen service, we can arrange it.

Is the patio available for events?

Yes. The Neptune patio can be incorporated into your event for more intimate gatherings, cocktail hours, or supplementary seating. It pairs well with the main lot for hybrid events.

Can I choose what movie is shown?

For private screenings, we can arrange the film of your choice, subject to distributor licensing and availability. There may be additional licensing fees depending on the title. We will walk you through the options.

What about non-movie events?

The screen, projector, and sound system can be used for presentations, slideshows, live video feeds, or other visual content. The Drive-In is not limited to cinema.

Is there sound equipment beyond the FM system?

The standard audio setup broadcasts via FM radio, which works well for in-car events. For events with outdoor seating, supplementary speaker arrangements can be discussed.

Are there seasonal restrictions on private events?

Private events are subject to availability and may not be booked on regular screening nights during peak season without prior arrangement. Off-season and weekday bookings offer the most flexibility.

How far in advance should I book?

As early as possible. Popular dates (summer weekends, holidays) book quickly. We recommend reaching out at least four to six weeks in advance for summer events and two to three weeks for off-season bookings.

How much does it cost to rent the venue?

Pricing varies depending on the date, duration, services required, and nature of the event. Contact us for a customized quote.

Is there insurance required for private events?

Depending on the nature and scale of your event, you may be required to carry event liability insurance. This will be discussed during the booking process.

Can I decorate the grounds?

Decorations are permitted with prior approval. All decorations must be removed at the end of your event. Nothing may be affixed to the screen, projector equipment, or permanent structures without explicit authorization. No confetti. We mean it about the confetti.

Who do I contact to book a private event?

Reach us at info@shediacwonderland.ca with “Private Event” in the subject line. Include your preferred date, estimated guest count, and a brief description of what you have in mind. We will respond with availability and a quote.

—

*The Neptune Drive-In Theatre is operated by Shediac Wonderland. The Neptune has been showing movies under the stars since the 1960s, with a brief intermission or two along the way.*

Le Neptune Drive-In est géré par Shediac Wonderland, un ensemble d'entreprises axées sur la narration créées par Sébastien Després et Heather Wright. Le Moque-Tortue (notre bistrot de jeux de société), Morse et Marteaux BBQ Smokehouses & Lobster Shacks (avec quatre établissements à Shediac), Le Griffon (chambres d'hôtes), The Neptune (notre cinéma en plein air), Adorable Chocolat (notre chocolaterie artisanale), Bazar Neptune (marché du samedi), et Witzend Tours & Adventures (visites guidées, escape rooms et conciergerie) : chacun constitue un chapitre d’une histoire plus vaste sur ce qui se passe lorsqu’une communauté décide de prendre le jeu au sérieux.

Le Neptune est ce moment où le ciel devient le plafond, l'écran se transforme en feu de camp et toute la voiture devient la meilleure place qui soit.