Local nonprofit puts on drive-in movies for a cause

(ABC 6 NEWS) – For many families, holiday traditions revolve around classic movies. But with a recent spike in coronavirus cases in Olmsted County, gathering with extended family or with neighbors may still feel risky. Local nonprofit Rochester My Home is here with options.

"This is a little bit safer way to connect. Still get you out doing something with grandma and grandpa or the neighbors," event organizer and founder Brandon Helgeson said.

Drive-in movies are a safer option. People can come watch holiday classics at the Olmsted County Fairgrounds throughout November and December. Before showtime, event workers will fill the space with over 200 vehicles. Event-goers can register online for a variety of ticket prices. There are free tickets, $20 tickets, and $40 VIP tickets. Each ticket comes with different perks.

"The advantage that we have with drive-ins these days is it’s a lot easier to keep your cars running," Helgeson said.

Rochester My Home is a nonprofit event company. It helps throw events for other local nonprofits and hosts it’s own fundraisers for other causes. This drive-in series is one of those fundraisers.

"The two organizations we narrowed that down to are Nami and Christmas Anonymous here in town," he said.

Helgeson is focusing on giving back this holiday season.

"We’re giving people who maybe have done a little bit better during this pandemic the opportunity to help out area organizations," he said.

While still offering people struggling this year a free family activity.

"So much of our community gets lost over the years because we aren’t able to connect," Helgeson said.

The nonprofit is trying out new LED screens this year. The drive-ins could also feature DJs and a holiday light show.