Charlotte Prepares for 40th Anniversary of Back to the Future

Charlotte NC, October 21, 2025

News Summary

Charlotte is gearing up for the celebration of 40 years since the release of the iconic film ‘Back to the Future.’ Fans can look forward to a special 40th anniversary edition returning to theaters, including IMAX screens. The movie-themed events will include DeLorean rentals, retro dining experiences, and local attractions celebrating the 1950s and 1980s. With screenings and activities set for late October, the community anticipates a nostalgic return to the past to honor the film’s legacy.

Charlotte is gearing up for the celebration of 40 years since the release of the iconic film “Back to the Future.” The film, directed by Robert Zemeckis, first premiered in the summer of 1985 and continues to be a beloved classic. Fans can look forward to a special 40th anniversary edition of the film, which is set to return to theaters, including IMAX screens, for the first time since its original launch. The official release date for this highly anticipated edition is October 31, 2025, with local theaters hosting early screenings beginning October 30, 2025.

“Back to the Future,” the story of 1980s teen Marty McFly who travels back in time to 1955, debuted alongside other notable films such as “The Goonies,” “St. Elmo’s Fire,” and “Rambo: First Blood Part II.” Word is that Charlotteans got an early sneak peek at the film at the Park Terrace Theater, before it went nationwide. The film was later screened at various local theaters, including Park 51 Cinema, Town Cinema 6, and Eastland Mall, which are now closed.

The movie, which chronicles Marty’s adventures on October 26, 1985, has inspired annual celebrations, including Back to the Future Day on October 21, commemorating the future Marty travels to in “Back to the Future II,” released in 1989.

Event Activities and Itineraries

Local attractions and spots have prepared special events that reflect on both the 1950s and 1980s, inspired by the film. CharlotteFive has created two itineraries packed with local activities. Both focus on retro experiences, from food recommendations to family-friendly fun.

One highlight includes DeLorean rentals through “DeLorean Rental, LLC,” offered at a rate of $350 to $450 per hour, allowing enthusiasts to have a taste of the iconic vehicle featured in the film. Vintage-themed dress recommendations are also available from local shops.

Dining and Entertainment Options

For diners craving a taste of nostalgia, several Charlotte restaurants encapsulate the 1950s experience. Notable establishments include:

• Park Road Soda Shoppe (4121 Park Rd, Charlotte, NC)
• The Soda Shop in Davidson (104 S Main St, Davidson, NC)
• South 21 Drive In (3101 E Independence Blvd, Charlotte, NC)

Additionally, locals can enjoy social dancing at venues such as Matthews Ballroom+Events (189 N Trade St, Matthews, NC) and participate in swing dancing events. Bowling at the classic-themed Lucky Strike South Charlotte, which is reminiscent of the 1950s bowling scene, and catching films at the renovated Belmont Drive-In (314 McAdenville Rd, Belmont, NC), which reopened in 2023, are also part of the festivities.

Retro Experiences

Various entertainment venues are set to feature retro themes, including:

• Carolina Theatre (230 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC) showcasing classic films
• Classic Pizza Huts in Monroe and Albemarle, evoking nostalgic ’80s dining
• Skateboarding at Renaissance Park Skate Park (5130 Parkway Plaza Blvd, Charlotte, NC)
• Roller-skating nights at Kate’s Skating Rinks located in Indian Trail and Gastonia
• Playing retro arcade games at The Super Abari Game Bar in Belmont
• Experiencing nightlife at The Retro Bar (200 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC) filled with ’80s décor and music

To wrap up the retro experience, visitors are encouraged to stop by TCBY, which launched its first shop in 1981, serving up treats that remind attendees of the era.

Conclusion

As Charlotte gears up to celebrate the 40th anniversary of “Back to the Future,” the community anticipates a nostalgic return to the past, with events and activities designed to honor the film’s legacy while embracing the retro spirit of the 1950s and 1980s.

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Additional Resources

• Charlotte Observer: 40th Anniversary of Back to the Future
• Wikipedia: Back to the Future
• Fox 47 News: Eaton Rapids Event
• Google Search: Back to the Future
• WBTV: Charlotte Denied Host CIAA Tournament
• Google Scholar: Back to the Future
• WCNC: Charlotte CIAA Basketball Tournament Bid
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Back to the Future
• The Charlotte Post: Hornets Look to the Future
• Google News: Charlotte Hornets Future

Author: HERE Charlotte

The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.