Village Theaters North in Big Bear Lake, the only theater in the San Bernardino Mountains, has opened its doors again with new ownership.
The theater closed its doors after 25 years, but after a short break, it is again welcoming moviegoers. The theater opened in 1999 under then-owner Will Viner, who died in February 2024. The theater’s final day in operation was Feb. 19, but since then, the business has reopened under Bill Ross.
“The owner of The Bowling Barn just purchased and reopened it a couple weeks ago and added a late show,” Ellen Clarke, executive director of Big Bear Chamber of Commerce, said via email Aug. 15. “Our residents are thrilled it has reopened!”
The late show starts at 9 p.m., a new feature at the theater.
Big Bear and other mountain residents went nearly six months without a movie theater, but with Village Theaters back in business, moviegoers will no longer have to trek down the mountain to catch a flick.
The theater reopened on July 26.
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The theater is looking to streamline ticket purchases online, Ross announced on Big Bear Television, platform that showcases Big Bear information by residents. The new management also wants to introduce different food options, offer reserved seating and add beer and wine to the concessions in the future, Ross said.
“We’re bringing movies back!” The Bowling Barn announced on its Facebook page in June.
Many residents took to the comments to share their support of the reopening.
“Thank you for stepping up and providing another opportunity for us to enjoy the movies again,” said one commenter, Robert Wheeler.
