Create An Outdoor Movie Night: Summer Memories Under the Stars

With summer being in full swing, there is no better time than the present to take advantage of these warm summer evenings with an outdoor movie in your very own backyard. There truly is something magical about watching a movie surrounded by family and friends under the stars! Throw in some popcorn, yummy treats, maybe even some nice lighting, and you will have fun summer memories literally outside your back door.

The great thing about this do-it-yourself project is that it can be as inexpensive or elaborate as you want. There are plenty of “nice-to-have” items and accessories like with any other project or source of entertainment, but the list of “must-haves” isn’t that long. Check out the following steps on how to get started for your night at the movies from the comfort of your home.

1. Screen

While there are many screen options out there, this can be as simple as using a sheet from your linen closet, a table cloth, or a wall on the outside of your house. If the side of your house is too textured or if you don’t have quite enough space and want to go the easy route with a sheet or table cloth, they are great solutions as well. It’s best to keep them as taut as possible and maybe even let the wrinkles shake out before the big movie.

When you use an actual screen or sheet, secure it to a stand or a flat, vertical space for the best experience. You don’t want a breeze interrupting your favorite part of your movie!

2. Projector

The projector is perhaps one of the most important elements of the outdoor movie night. There are plenty of inexpensive options out there if you are trying to keep to a budget (just do a quick search online, and you’ll be set). Or, you can definitely splurge on this one, too. Regardless, this is the outdoor movie night item that will bring the “wow factor” for you and your attendees. 

Helpful Tip… Get yourself a carrying case or bag to store your projector and all necessary cords and attachments. You might also consider making a checklist of all items that need to come back inside once your movie is over. The last thing you want is to forget any electronic devices outside in the elements!

3. Speaker

Having a speaker other than the projector’s internal speaker is a nice added touch so that everyone can enjoy the movie. With the nighttime sounds, kids running around and playing (and probably a little screaming, if we’re being honest), and any other background noise, it can be difficult to hear if you’re not careful. Grab yourself an external speaker and bring the movie to life.

If you add a little volume, just remember to be a courteous neighbor and keep the noise level reasonable. Don’t allow your night of fun and relaxation to become a source of contention with those who live around you.

4. Lights

This is where you can add some beauty and ambiance to your backyard movie setting. From stringing up your old Christmas lights to adding fairy lights, you can get as creative as you want! String them up on your fence or between trees and transform your space to have a cozy glow. Add some lanterns if you have them around to shed some extra light on your surroundings.

Not only will your light sources add a soft, beautiful touch, but they will also help everyone see better in the dark when visiting with each other and frequenting the snack station.

5. Snacks

We all know that movies and snacks go hand-in-hand! Create that movie feel with popcorn and your favorite movie theater treats. You could even create themed treats – a S’mores bar, a table with popcorn and all the fixings, an ice cream table, etc. The possibilities are endless! 

Don’t forget to set up a trash can! You’ll be thankful you did the next morning. 😉

6. Seating

You can throw anything you want down for seating. From pillows to bean bags to lawn chairs, anything goes. If you don’t have enough chairs for everyone, use blankets. The cozier the better.

If you have a barn nearby, using square bales with blankets on top can add a nice, rustic feel to the evening. Get creative!

7. Other Helpful Tips

Here are a few other household items that might come in handy:

• Extension cords – These are essential to making this all work. You may need to add a power strip as well if you have multiple items to operate.
• Bug spray – With everything wonderful the outdoors has to offer, we do have to put up with a few not-so-wonderful parts at times. Don’t let the annoyance of bugs and bug bites stop you from enjoying your outdoor movie and making sweet memories.
• Camera – Don’t forget to document the fun you have!

Spending time with family and friends at your home is always fun and memorable, and let’s face it, it’s pretty convenient. But there’s just something about taking it outdoors and watching a movie together in the nighttime air under the stars that makes it even more special. Sometimes, mixing it up and adding the small details help make everyday occasions an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy the magic of the movies AND the outdoors!

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