Voy 61 Drive In Theatre celebrates installation of new marquee

After 76 years of bringing movies, memories, and generations of families together under the stars, the Voy 61 Drive In Theatre has completed installation of its new exterior illuminated marquee, made possible through the support of American Express and Main Street America through the Amex Shop Small Grants Program, a news release says.

The new marquee represents more than an improvement to the theater's exterior. It is a symbol of continued investment in a beloved piece of Iowa history and a commitment to preserving the drive-in movie experience for generations to come.

In May 2026, the Voy 61 announced its selection as one of 505 small businesses nationwide to receive a $20,000 grant through the Amex Shop Small Grants Program. The initiative, funded by American Express and administered by Main Street America, was designed to help small businesses grow, innovate, and strengthen the communities they serve. With the installation now complete, the theater is celebrating the transformation of that investment into a lasting improvement that will enhance visibility, welcome new visitors, and help ensure the continued success of one of Iowa's few remaining drive-in movie theaters.

Opening in August 1950, the Voy 61 Drive In Theatre has been owned by Dennis Voy since 1972. For more than five decades, he has dedicated himself to maintaining and improving the property, navigating the many challenges facing independent movie theaters while preserving an experience that has become increasingly rare across the country.

"This new marquee means so much more to us than simply having a new sign," said Sara Clasen, general manager of the Voy 61 Drive In Theatre and granddaughter of Dennis Voy. "It's another chapter in something my grandpa has spent more than 50 years building and preserving. To be able to stand alongside him and see this improvement become a reality is incredibly meaningful. His years of hard work, dedication, and investment are the reason we're still here today, and I'm so grateful to have the opportunity to continue building on what he's created."

As one of only four remaining operating drive-in movie theaters in Iowa, the Voy 61 continues to distinguish itself through its nostalgic atmosphere, expansive grass field, modern digital projection, and commitment to affordable, family-friendly entertainment. Guests enjoy much more than a movie, with complimentary activities including children's train rides, a playground, sandbox, basketball, volleyball, tether ball, and a Wiffle ball diamond.

While the entertainment industry has evolved significantly since the theater first opened, the Voy 61 remains committed to combining the charm of traditional drive-in movies with improvements that support its future.

"Small businesses like ours don't survive for 76 years without people believing in them," Clasen added. "We're incredibly grateful to American Express and Main Street America for recognizing the importance of investing in small businesses and making projects like this possible. Their support allows us to continue improving while holding on to the history and traditions that make Voy 61 special."

The new marquee is both a celebration of the theater's past and a visible reminder of its future. As the Voy 61 continues expanding its entertainment offerings and community involvement, this investment represents another step toward ensuring that families will have a place to gather, connect, and make memories for many years to come.

"Our goal has never been to change what makes the drive-in special. It's to make sure that what makes it special is still here for the next generation."

The Voy 61 Drive In Theatre extends its sincere appreciation to American Express, Main Street America, and Dennis Voy for their contributions to this milestone.

About the Voy 61 Drive In Theatre

Established in 1950 and located in Delmar, Iowa, the Voy 61 Drive In Theatre is a family-operated outdoor movie theater offering first-run films, special events, and affordable entertainment in a nostalgic, family-friendly setting. Owned by Dennis Voy since 1972, the theater continues its tradition of bringing communities together through its mission of "Movies Reimagined Under the Stars."

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