Aquaboggan will continue tradition of Saco Drive-In

SACO — Families may once again enjoy movies under the stars this summer, just across the street from the former drive-in location.

Aquaboggan Water Park, a water park at 980 Portland Road (Route One), announced today that it will be bringing back drive-in movies to Saco.

This is good news to the many fans who were saddened to learn that the Saco Drive-In, a movie theater that had operated since 1938 at 967 Portland Road, had been sold to commercial trailer dealership Hale Trailer Brake and Wheel in January. The dealership intends to move its dealership from its current location in Portland to the Saco property, said Neal Bangor, general manager of Hale Trailer Brake and Wheel.

Aquaboggan Water Park General Manager Ethan Mongue said in a press release that the park is currently working with the City of Saco to get all the necessary permits in place.

“Though the timeline and completion of the project is still unknown, we are doing everything we can to keep this local icon thriving for generations to come,” said Mongue. “Our plan is to have the Saco Drive-In at Aquaboggan Water Park and we are committed to preserving as much history as possible in the process.

The park thanked both the Roberge family, the previous owner of the Saco Drive-In, and Hale Trailer for their help with the project. Hale Trailer Brake and Wheel has donated the iconic Saco Drive-In sign as well as several other historical items, said Mongue.

“The City is thrilled that Aquaboggan, a well-known water park, will be bringing the Saco Drive-In back to Saco,” said Saco Economic Development Director Denise Clavette. “A huge thank you to the Saco Drive-In, Hale Trailer and to Aquaboggan - for their collaborative effort in keeping our local historical icon alive. This will be a great addition to Aquaboggan’s family fun and entertainment venue.”

For updates on the project, check out Aquaboggan on social media.

Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.