With theatres closed, gatherings off limits and coronavirus restrictions likely to continue into winter, it’s undeniable Christmas will look a little different this year. But that doesn’t mean there’s no festive fun to be had.
To ensure no one misses out on the nation’s most beloved festive traditions, from 9thDecember until 13th December The Parking Lot Social is heading to Sully Sports Club to deliver a Christmas-themed drive-in extravaganza and some much-needed cheer!
The team have put together a truly magical line-up of events, headlined by a brand new, 2020 drive-in version of panto classic Cinderella.
Featuring all the traditional panto elements you know and love, as well as a few ‘drive-in’ twists, the specially written show has song and dance routines a-plenty, audience participation galore and a script that takes a light-hearted dig at some of the challenges thrown up by this strangest of years, all broadcast onto two massive 40-foot screens to make sure even the littlest panto fans don’t miss out on the action.
Film lovers can choose from a selection of cosy Christmas classics to park up and watch on dedicated movie nights, including unmissable fan favourites Elf, Love Actually and Home Alone. Films will be shown on their giant screens with the sound broadcast straight to your car for the ultimate surround sound experience, plus DJs and MCs on hand to get everyone in the festive spirit before the films start.
For those craving a Christmas night out, dig out your Christmas jumpers and head down to the ‘Big Weekender’ – glitter is optional, but most definitely encouraged. Featuring the company’s famous silent disco, as well as live cam ‘Car-A-Oke’, party bingo and an interactive quiz, park up next to your friends and let loose from a safe distance.
There are even family friendly ‘Social Kids’ event nights to create those memorable Christmas moments. The big man Santa Claus himself will be hosting two-hours of immersive fun including family versions of the Christmas Car-A-Oke, quizzes, silent disco and party bingo!
Finally, swap the ho-ho-ho’s for some ha-ha-ha’s at adult comedy night ‘Parking LOL’, set to provide some much-needed laughs to help see off 2020 in style directly from the comfort of your car – watch this space for an exciting line up announcement coming soon…
Every event is set to the backdrop of a 60ft tall rainbow coloured Christmas tree, a giant Santa Claus MC and his reindeer sidekick, with tasty seasonal grub available from some of the most popular local food trucks, all available to order from the dedicated app and delivered directly to your car.
In line with government restrictions this is a completely contactless event format. Audiences will take part in the immersive, interactive shows from their own cars to ensure a safe and socially distant experience throughout in line with guidelines. Organisers have even committed to full ticket refunds if additional government restrictions should stop the events from going ahead.
John Kinnersley, Chief Operating Officer at XL Event Lab, the company behind the events, said: “If someone had said to us we’d be planning a socially distanced drive-in Christmas party at the start of 2020, we would never have believed them!
‘This year has been a huge strain for anyone working in the arts and events industry, so we want to do everything in our power to showcase how we need our comedians, actors, musicians and film-makers now more than ever. This event is designed to give people something fun and light-hearted to look forward to amongst all this uncertainty, and we can’t wait to see everyone coming together in sprit and celebrating Christmas in style!”
The tour will visit the following cities:
- London, Brentford Syon Park, 2-6 December
- Manchester, Intu Trafford Centre, 2-6 December
- Liverpool, John Lennon International Airport, 9-13 December
- Glamorgan, Sully Sports Club, 9-13 December
- Edinburgh, Dalkeith Country Park, 16-24 December
- Glasgow, Skyport Airport Parking, 16-24 December
- Bristol, Bristol Airport, 27-30 December
Tickets are on sale now, tickets are priced from £37.38 per car and are available to purchase here. Organisers are promising a full refund if events have to be cancelled if restrictions change.
