Imagine floating on a pool floatie, the warm pool air brushing against skin and having a laugh with your friends, while a new Disney film plays across a giant inflatable screen. This is the magic of Dive-In Movies, a unique fusion of cinema and aquatic leisure that transforms traditional movie nights into an immersive experience.
That was the vibe at the PEIF pool on campus on Sunday, March 16, from 5:30-8 p.m. The event was organized by NMU’s Special Events Committee and co-hosted by Campus Cinema, featuring a screening of “Moana 2.”
When the doors opened, students entered and grabbed a raffle ticket to win prizes. They could then enter the water, grab a floatie and mingle before the movie started at 6 p.m.
Dive-In Movies offer a unique twist on traditional outdoor film screenings by allowing viewers to enjoy a movie while floating in a pool or lounging by the water’s edge. Unlike drive-in theaters, which cater to car-bound audiences, Dive-In Movies provide a more interactive and immersive experience. Attendees can watch a film under the night sky or on a warm, sunny day, all while enjoying the cool embrace of the water.
“It was my first time ever going to a Dive-In Movie, and it was really fun,” said student Brianna Lowery.
Once the movie started, students had the freedom to move around the pool as they wanted and could enter or exit the pool at their leisure. The majority of students watched from in the pool while lounging on floaties, while others watched from poolside.
“I thought it was a great time, and it was a good break from the cold. I think they should hold more events like this one,” said student Mena Wylykanowitz. “I told some friends about the event, and they wish they had gone. I would definitely go again.”
Campus Cinema is always holding some form of unique event around campus. The next one will be on March 22, from 7-9 p.m. in Jamrich 1100, featuring “Wicked.”
NMU’s Special Events Committee is also constantly organizing fun events. The next one will be a glow-in-the-dark mini-golf party on Thursday, March 27, from 5-9 p.m. in the Northern Center Ballrooms.
