Movies on the Lawn: Here’s How to Host Epic Movie Nights with Your Own Outdoor Cinema

The first outdoor movie theater opened in New Jersey in 1933. Ever since then, we’ve become obsessed with creating the cinema experience outdoors.

For decades, people have explored ways to get the big-screen in their backyards.

Now, you can too. Movie nights are perfect for family time, dates, and hangouts with friends. You can create the perfect night with those you love and a good flick.

All you need is a handful of supplies and the right ambiance. Keep reading to learn how to plan your own outdoor cinema night at home.

Get the Right Supplies

The idea of setting up an outdoor cinema might seem intimidating. The audio and visual aspects need to be correct for everyone to enjoy.

Luckily, it’s easier than you think.

First, you need to get a quality projector that is reliable to use outside. Then, you’ll need speakers for audio and cables to connect the whole system.

Choose where you’ll set up the supplies. If you don’t rent a screen, you need a large white surface to project the movie onto. Garage doors can work, as can the sides of some houses.

Opposite the screen is where your seating will go. Ensure your guests have a clean and comfortable place to be, like the driveway or the lawn.

Set Up Cozy Seating

The options for seating in your outdoor cinema are endless. You could provide lawn chairs or ask everyone to bring their own.

Or, you could lay blankets and pillows across the lawn for guests to lounge on. The key is to make it more comfortable than indoor cinema chairs. Every part of this experience should be better than watching a movie indoors.

Another option is to buy or borrow bean bag chairs. These are great options because they’re comfortable and close to the ground. Guests can stretch out and lay down.

If you’re planning an outdoor cinema night for your spouse, an air mattress could work well. Plus, if you live somewhere warm enough, you could sleep under the stars.

Then, make sure you provide blankets. Since you’ll be watching your movie at night, the air can get a little chilly. Suggest all guests bring a sweater and a blanket or two.

Provide Quintessential Lobby Snacks

Snacks make everything better, right? Traditionally, old-fashioned movie theaters would serve popcorn in the lobby. They might also have chocolate-covered raisins and hot dogs, too.

You can recreate that experience with your BBQ grill and the local grocery store.

Consider setting up a “lobby” section where all the snacks are. It could be beside the grill where you make hot dogs and popcorn. Buy striped paper bags for the popcorn to go in.

Set up a cooler or kiddie-pool full of ice. Store the beverages in there as well as anything that needs to stay cool.

Create a candy bar where guests can fill their cup with a variety of candies. Use paper cups and plates to cut down on clean-up after the event.

Now, if it’s just you and your family, you don’t need to go all out with the sweets. You want the little ones to fall asleep later, after all. But, if the neighbors and friends are attending, a snack bar is a fun idea.

The Little Extras Matter

There are lots of other additions that make your outdoor cinema feel authentic. Start by creating tickets for all attendees. As they enter your yard, employ one person to be the ticket collector.

Consider laying string lights across the lawn where walk-ways are. This is similar to the LED lights in the pathways of indoor cinemas.

You could create a sign that directs guests to the bathrooms. And, a sign to show what movie is playing tonight. A traditional marquee sign is best for authentic replication.

Movies in theaters often have previews of upcoming flicks shown first. While you don’t have current previews, you could assign your kiddos to create one. Have them make a short video to show before the movie.

Or, set up a selection of board games. Family and friends can play a couple rounds until it’s dark enough for the movie.

If the movie your showing is a cult classic, consider making it a themed night. Provide costume props that relate to the flick. For example, if you’re showing The Rocky Horror Picture Show, provide newspaper and rice.

Safety, Laws, and Other Tips

Timing is key when showing an outdoor movie. When the sun’s still up, the movie won’t display clearly on the screen. You need complete darkness for the best visual quality.

Check what time sunset is the night of your outdoor cinema. Plan for guests to arrive just before sunset. Then, schedule the movie to start 15-20 minutes after the sun sets.

Movie Night Laws

Another crucial tip is that you shouldn’t advertise this event. It’s generally fine to watch an outdoor movie with your friends and family. But, advertising the event to the public is cause for copyright infringement.

You also shouldn’t charge guests to see the movie. This can get you in trouble with copyright laws.

Movie Night Safety

Lastly, ensure your outdoor cinema is safe for everyone. That means keeping electrical cords away from water. Make sure all pathways are lit well.

Try to avoid letting cords cross all over the pathways. They can be tripping hazards, especially at night.

Ready to Create Your Own Outdoor Cinema?

The best part of having an outdoor cinema is getting everyone you love together. Comfortable seats and delicious food are just cherries on top.

To plan your outdoor cinema night, make sure you use the tips above. Ensure you have the right equipment, supplies, and decorations. Every element is important for making your night perfect.

And, don’t forget to choose an awesome movie. If you need ideas of movies to play at your cinema night, check out these options. Before you know it, you’ll be holding cinema nights every week!