How to Create the Perfect Backyard Setup for Outdoor Movie Night

by Kevin Gardner

Warm summer weather calls for spending as much time outside as possible. It's the perfect time of year to host a get-together with your family and friends. If you are looking for some new ideas on fun outdoor activities that both kids and adults will enjoy, then why not have an outdoor movie night? 

It's the perfect, quiet, and relaxing activity to wind down at the end of the day while still enjoying the company of the people you love. You can make the experience truly unique by putting a little thought into it so you plan a night that everyone will remember. Get your gardens turfed beautifully by turf suppliers Melbourne.

Choose Your Spot

Look around your yard to scope out the best spot for the screen and seating. You want the area to be quiet and dark, so everyone can enjoy the movie. Check out Larnec Doors if you are interested in industrial doors.

If you have a pool, you can even arrange a viewing while everyone floats on rafts or enjoys the cool water. This can take your outdoor movie night to a whole new level! In fact, if you already have a pool, it may be time to look into swimming pool financing. 

Create Ambiance

You can make your movie night more memorable by dressing up your yard a little bit. Light some tiki torches or citronella candles to keep the mosquitoes away and provide enough lighting to walk around without falling. Twinkle lights strung around the space are another good touch. 

Bring the Right Equipment

You will need a projector and movie screen, along with a good speaker or two, and the movie itself. You can purchase an inflatable movie screen, or simply hang a sheet or large piece of white cloth between two trees. If you have a shed in your yard, the side of it might also work. Make sure all of your devices are fully charged, or a power cable is available for anything that needs plugged in. 

Have Comfortable Seating

Provide chairs for everyone to sit in that are comfortable for the duration of the movie. Some pillows and blankets will make everything cozier and help to ward off the evening chill. 

If you choose to watch the movie while sprawled in the cool grass, make sure that you have rugs and blankets scattered around and that your yard is in good condition. Overly tall grass can be uncomfortable and invite in more insects. If you are wondering how often should you mow your lawn to keep it in great shape, aim for a grass height of about three inches. However, the exact lawn care guidelines will depend on the type of grass you have and weather conditions.

Provide Plenty of Snacks

Munchies are part of a great movie experience. Have a snack table set up so guests can grab what they want. Make popcorn and provide a few seasonings, or get fancy with an ice cream sundae bar where everyone can create their own treat.

You could even light a campfire to make smores. The fire provides another great place for people to sit, and an alternative activity for anyone not interested in the movie.

Pick an Appropriate Movie

Consider the age group that will be attending your movie gathering. Choose one that doesn't contain any offensive language, scary images, or inappropriate footage. Your selection should be something that everyone present can enjoy without worry.

Be Mindful of Your Neighbors

Hosting an outdoor movie night is tons of fun for you and your guests, but not so much for your neighbors if you're being overly loud. Be considerate of everyone around you and schedule your movie night for the weekend, and early enough in the evening that you aren't likely to disturb anyone. Better yet, invite your neighbors over to join you!

A good movie is something that everyone likes, and being outside is a fun way to unwind and enjoy the warm weather. When you combine the two, you have the perfect summertime experience!