Ingredients for the Perfect Backyard Movie Theater
This is a great project for any family with a bit of open space on their property. Grab blankets, pillows, popcorn, and some flashlights, because we’re taking the movie theater to your backyard!
Step 1: The Screen
For the vast majority of occasions, a white sheet will work perfectly as an outdoor movie screen. Find a solid stretch of wall space on the back of your home and get to work: we recommend duct tape for a strong hold. For a more durable option, there are outdoor screens available for purchase online. (Although costlier, manufactured outdoor screens come with solid stands for viewing anytime, anywhere.)
Step 2: The Projector
Portable projectors are a great investment, especially if you’re looking to stage fun outdoor events throughout the summer. Luckily, as social distancing becomes the norm and people look for at-home alternatives to traditional theaters, a multitude of projectors are flooding the online market. Prices vary, but we recommend projectors with the $100-$150 range. Most projectors will connect to your laptop via HTMI cable, which may or may not come with your order: be sure to check item details before making a purchase online!
Step 3: The Speakers
Any wireless bluetooth speaker will do the trick. When pulling up Netflix, Hulu, or another movie source on your computer, you’ll have the option to connect with Bluetooth devices and stream audio remotely. Place the speaker in the midst of your outdoor crowd and enjoy! For surround-sound capability, stream audio via Bluetooth to multiple speakers simultaneously.
Step 4: The Seats
For outdoor activities, seats with waterproof material work best. We recommend folding lawn chairs made from sturdy canvas. Ordinary blankets and pillows are also a viable option, but make sure any bedding brought outside is washer-friendly.
Step 5: The Snacks
To help juggle technical difficulties and general familial mayhem, you may want to opt for portable, silverware-free snacks. Popcorn is a classic: although air-popping is a healthier option, microwave popcorn comes out buttered and ready to eat. Pretzels, teddy grahams, goldfish… any snack that easily pours into a bowl will be great for movie night.
Step 6: The Bug Repellant
To minimize bugbites, avoid swampy, wet regions of your backyard, especially by or near standing water. Citronella candles are a fantastic way to ward off bugs while faintly illuminating your seating area.