Create Your Own Backyard Movie Night
Watch a movie while cuddled up outdoors this summer.
Take movie night outside this summer and create an unforgettable family memory. A backyard theatre has the nostalgia of a drive-in with all the convenience of home. Who wants to pay for movie tickets and treats when you can have a cost-effective, fun-filled time on your own lawn? Recreating this outdoor cinema is simple and budget-friendly with our editors’ tips and tricks.
A Cozy Setup
Get crafty and create your own DIY movie screen with a projector. Or gather everyone around the iPad or laptop and watch a movie bundled up close.
Once you have your screen set up, the key to a successful outdoor movie night is comfort and staying warm. Pick a flat spot on your lawn—bonus if the grass is lush and cushy. Then lay out a large picnic or camp blanket and gather up blankets and pillows as a nice lounge spot for the kids. For the adults, position lawn or beach chairs behind the blanket setup. You won’t block the view of the kids, and you’ll be able to keep an eye on them. Bring extra blankets for the chairs, so the grown-ups can snuggle up too!
Tip! Hang string lights to cast a soft glow over your backyard without distracting from the movie.
Delicious Snacks
You can’t forget the snacks! Organize sweet treats and popcorn into individual baggies for the little ones. This ensures everyone gets their portion and helps prevent big bowls from spilling.
Stock a cooler with bottled water and juice boxes. Make your job easier and place the cooler at the edge of the blanket so everyone can easily reach it. Knowing where the snacks and drinks are will minimize the interruptions during the movie.
Once the kids are set, it’s time to set up the adult concession stand. Prep a cooler for you and your significant other with a bottle of wine or beer. Make a parents-only snack, like our Spicy Sriracha Popcorn or a yummy trail mix. For easy transportation from your house to the yard, corral everything on a serving tray.
Tip! Plan ahead for an easy clean up by setting out a flashlight and trash bag. A flashlight will come in handy when someone runs back to the house during the movie.
