how do you set up a backyard movie night

How to set up a backyard movie night in 4 easy steps:

• 1. Set up the screen: You can buy an outdoor projector screen, or you can easily hang a white sheet. ...
• 2. Add lighting: Fairy string lights are perfect because they give off enough light but enable it to be dark enough so you can still see the screen. ...
• 3. Add Seating: ...
• 4. Make it cozy: ...
• 5. Set up the projector: ...
• 6. Don’t forget the snacks! ...

Full Answer

What do you need for a movie night backyard?

To host your backyard movie night, you'll need:A Projector.A Screen Surface & Projector Surface.A Video Source.A Sound System (Optional)A Power Source.Comfy Seating.Snacks (Optional if You Want Cranky People)The Movie!

How do you organize an outdoor movie night?

You can use existing outdoor furniture like lawn chairs or create a DIY space for guests to enjoy the feature film. If you don't have outdoor furniture, bring out a few dining chairs from inside the house. Another fun idea is to lay out sleeping pads, pillows, and beanbag chairs for a cozy sitting area.

How do you set up an at home movie night?

Movie Date Night At-Home - 8 Tips to Make it AwesomePick Your Movie Before Date Night. ... Theme What You Eat. ... Upgrade Your Basic Movie Popcorn. ... Don't Forget the Candy! ... Go Big: Use a Projector for Movie Night At Home. ... Surround Yourself with Sound. ... Get as Cozy as Possible. ... Take Your Movie Night Outside.

How do you start a backyard theater?

0:087:03Outdoor Movie Theater with @Living to DIY with Rachel Metz - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMovie theater. Let's start with creating the diy projection. Screen you will need a drop cloth andMoreMovie theater. Let's start with creating the diy projection. Screen you will need a drop cloth and tarp size is totally up to you i am using a 6x9 drop cloth and a 6x8 tarp that has grommets.

What time should you start an outdoor movie?

Even once the sun has gone down, I still recommend that you start your outdoor or backyard movie a little while after sunset. The point here is that you should ideally press play on your movie is once Civil Twilight has ended.

What do you need for an outdoor movie?

The most important purchases for any outdoor movie night are an outdoor screen, projector, and speaker—but crafting a comfortable, durable seating area is also key, so you should invest in that category, too.

How do you set up a backyard projector?

1:403:14How to set-up the perfect outdoor movie night - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou're also going to need a screen 100 or 120 inches is the most popular size telescoping stands areMoreYou're also going to need a screen 100 or 120 inches is the most popular size telescoping stands are easier to set up than screens that hang or come with a frame.

What is the best way to plan a movie night?

How to Plan a Movie NightStart with the basics. You don't need many things to throw an excellent movie night, but a large screen and good speakers are essential. ... Select your movie (or movies). ... Enhance the experience with a theme. ... Create a cozy atmosphere. ... Offer delicious snacks. ... Debrief after the movie.

How do you make a good family movie night?

6 ways to make family movie night funGive it a theme. Immersive experiences like Secret Cinema are all the rage these days, but you don't need to leave your living room to join in on the fun. ... Stage an intermission. ... Prepare themed snacks. ... Create your own coupons. ... Get cosy. ... Make up some activities.

How do I make a cheap outdoor movie screen?

1:533:24DIY outdoor cinema screen, make your own movie screen! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFind a stake that's small enough that your bracket will simply slot over the top of if you don'tMoreFind a stake that's small enough that your bracket will simply slot over the top of if you don't have grass you could try using two large pots filled with sand.

What do you use for sound for outdoor projector?

Bluetooth speaker To enjoy better, louder sound than your projector puts out, you can send audio via a cable or Bluetooth to one of these outdoor, battery-powered speakers.

What can I use as a projector screen outdoor?

8 Best Materials for Outdoor Projector ScreenPaint. Paint is the best option for when you are on a budget, and you want something quick and simple. ... Outdoor Fabric. Outdoor fabric is another material that works well, and that won't put a dent in your budget. ... Bedsheets. ... Blackout Cloth. ... Inflatable Screen. ... Trapeze. ... Spandex. ... Tarps.

How do you host a fun movie night?

How to host the ULTIMATE home movie nightChoose your movie night 'cast' Watching a movie alone is never the same. ... Select your movie wisely. ... Sort your movie night seating. ... Throw some shade. ... Bring good snack game. ... Beverages = also very important. ... Set up some post-movie games.

How do you throw a movie night event?

Here's how to prepare for the kind of movie night party they won't want to miss.Select a Venue.Select a Movie to Watch.Choose Your Movie Night Invites.Make the Event Special.Make It a Pajama Party.Set Up a DIY Popcorn Bar.Get All Dressed Up.Play Games With a Movie Theme.More items...•

What do we need for a movie night?

A Cozy Blanket. This faux fur blanket from Anthropologie is literally the softest, coziest thing in the world. ... A Popcorn Maker. Not all popcorn is created equally. ... A Magnificent Goblet. For some reason, I have a thing for glasses. ... Cozy Pajamas. ... Slip On Some Slippers. ... Cheese Please. ... Serving Bowls. ... Wine Please & Thx.More items...

How do you prepare for a movie night?

7 Steps to Hosting a Perfect Movie NightPrepare some pre-film fodder. ... Bring in some extra seating. ... Cosy up with blankets and cushions. ... Don't forget the popcorn. ... Set up a refreshment station. ... Dim the lights. ... Provide space for a post-film chat.

How long is a digital energy power strip?

Digital Energy offers a 6- outlet, 50-foot long power strip that works well.

What to do with smores in a fire pit?

If you have a fire pit, roast s’mores for a late-night treat.

How to limit exposure indoors?

Also, to limit exposure indoors, be sure to remind them to go to the bathroom before the gathering begins. And, if possible, lead them to the backyard via gate or outdoor walkway so they don’t need to trek through your home. Oh, don’t forget the hand sanitizer!

What to use to make cleanup easier?

Stick to disposable plates and napkins to make cleanup a breeze.

How far apart should you lay out blankets for a party?

(Hey, that way they get to pick their own candy!) Once everyone’s respective blankets are laid out the appropriate six feet apart, it will be apparent which areas are “off-limits” and “on-limits” for each group. Encourage guests to stick to their designated space.

What are some good movies to watch in your childhood?

A classic. Bring back a favorite movie from your own childhood like The Wizard of Oz, The Goonies, E.T. or The Muppet Movie.

How many people should attend a movie night?

Make sure to keep your guest list tight; there should be no more than 10 attendees. If you wish to include more people, consider making movie night at your house a weekly event, hosting a different crew each time. That way, you’ll eventually get see all your neighbors, friends and extended family members.

What is the best streaming stick for a backyard?

A good choice for a backyard with a fair amount of ambient light is the Miroir Synq M189. Rated at 200 LED lumens, or 150 ANSI lumens, in its brightest mode, it's easily bright enough for a 40-inch diagonal picture in dim to moderate ambient light, and it delivers accurate, nicely saturated color. The M189 has a single HDMI port that's particularly well suited for adding a streaming stick. All ports are hidden in a compartment that's big enough to hold your choice of stick, and there's also a USB-A port for power. The only other port is a 3.5mm audio out—and you may not need it, thanks to the onboard 5W mono speaker's robust audio.

How bright is a projector?

(The ISO/IEC 21118 rating is equivalent, but rarely used for this class of projectors.) Broadly speaking, the projector brightness you need for movies in dim to moderate ambient light is 300 ANSI lumens for a 50-inch diagonal image, 200 ANSI lumens for a 40-inch image, and 110 ANSI lumens for a 30-inch image. To be safe, the rating should be about twice as high as the level you need; individual units often don't measure up to their ratings, and the brightest picture mode rarely has the best picture quality.

How much does a 1080p projector cost?

So for $199.99, you get the native 1080p projector and remote, an HDMI cable, and a 100-inch diagonal screen. There's no frame or stand, so you have to hang the screen much the same way you would a bedsheet; metal grommets along the reinforced edges make this easier.

How much is a 530W mini projector?

Among 1080p options, the Vankyo 1080p Mini Wireless Leisure 530W Projector stands out for how much it offers for the price. Officially $229.99, its Amazon page includes a $30 coupon, which Vankyo says will remain for the foreseeable future.

What projector do I need for a nebula?

If you really don't have anywhere to plug things in, you'll need a portable projector like the Anker Nebula Mars II Pro . Its name mixes two distinctly different types of astronomical objects, but that may be because it's a fusion of two types of products. In addition to being a 500-lumen, 720p projector with preloaded streaming apps, including Netflix, and a link to download more, it's also a Bluetooth speaker. The dual-purpose design gives it an unusually robust sound system for a 3.9-pound projector. Part of that weight is for the onboard, rechargeable battery, rated at 3 hours for video or 30 hours in Bluetooth speaker mode.

What microwave oven to use for popcorn?

You probably won't buy a microwave oven just for movie popcorn, but the next time you're in the market for one, consider the Sharp Smart Countertop Microwave Oven (SMC1449FS). Not only does it have a Popcorn button optimized for popping Orville Redenbacher’s Classic (3.3-ounce) and Mini (1.2-ounce) bags of popcorn to perfection, it includes Wi-Fi and Alexa support. Tell Alexa to pop some popcorn, wait for the microwave to do its thing, and then go get it with minimum time missed from the movie. It's far more convenient than running out to a theater's concession stand.

How bright is a suburban backyard?

At its brightest, a suburban backyard is likely equivalent to a family room with dim to moderately bright ambient light. An urban setting may be even brighter; a rural backyard far from other houses or streetlights will be darker.

What is keystoning on a projector?

Lower-end projectors have electronic keystoning (you can adjust the image thrown by the projector to make up for the angle of the projector in relationship to the screen) and more expensive cinema-style projectors have physical controls which allow you to shift the actual lens to correct for image distortion.

What are the three questions to ask when selecting an outdoor projection screen?

When it comes to selecting an outdoor projection screen, your three questions should be, in this order: what is my budget? how big do I want it? do I want rear or front projection? Although we haven’t delved into it before this point, rear projection is a really handy tool to have in your backyard movie night toolkit.

What to do if your projector doesn't match?

If they don’t match (say, a new laptop with HDMI and your old projector with VGA), make sure you get an adapter so everything can fit together.

How much does an outdoor TV cost?

One of the most fun aspects of outdoor movie viewing is that you can go big without much expense. An HDTV with a 144″ diagonal could cost you $100,000 but a projection setup at the same size and resolution could run you less than a $1000.

What is lumen rating?

The lumen rating of a projector is indicative of how much light is can output. The more light a projector can put out, the sooner you can start your movie, and the better it can cut through ambient light (like light from street lamps, light from the tiki torches on your patio, etc.)

What is the first and most polite consideration?

The first and most polite consideration is to think of your neighbors. We’ve been doing backyard movie nights for nearly ten years now and during that period we’ve had small children of our own and all along the neighbors have had small children of various ages.

What are the upsides of inflatables?

The upside to inflatables is that they are big, they are economical for their size, they’re pretty light to transport (as they’re almost all fabric), and they set up really quickly. The downside is that they’re bulky (the inflated unit can take up quite a bit of space) and they require electricity to power the blowers. The blowers are also fairly noisy and anywhere within movie viewing range you’ll hear the fan hum. Inflatable models generally support front and rear projection.

Why Host A Backyard Movie Night?

Backyard movie nights are a perfect nighttime event in a variety of situations.

What is the ultimate popcorn bar?

38. The Ultimate Popcorn Bar creates an epic popcorn bar for guests to top their popcorn with their favorite toppings. (Click here to visit Happily Hughes for more information)

What is a DIY nacho bar?

40. DIY Nacho Bar involves creating a nacho buffet where guests can load their nachos with their favorite toppings. (Click here to visit Moms and Munchkins for more information)

What is Funfetti inspired cake board?

45. Funfetti Inspired Cake Board is the ultimate in dessert spreads. Load your cake board with sweet treats that guests can pick at while watching the movie! (Click here to visit Reluctant Entertainer for more information)

What is Disney's watermelon slush?

55. Copycat Disney Watermelon Slush is such a special refreshing treat! This copycat disney watermelon slush blends together watermelon, frozen lemonade concentrate and cucumber to make a delicious slush drink perfect for staying cool on backyard movie night! (Click here to visit Raising Whasians for more details)

What is cherry limeade?

52. Cherry Limeade is a fresh and easy bubbly drink that’s perfect for any summer gathering you may be hosting including backyard move night! (Click here to visit I Am Baker for more information)

How long does it take to make a hanging screen?

2. Hanging Drop Cloth Theater Screen is a no-sew totally easy DIY movie screen that comes together in less than an hour. (Click here to visit Hunker for more information)

How to decorate an outdoor movie theater?

Style your outdoor theater with Pendleton blankets and piles of outdoor cushions to give it a retro camp look and feel. Bring out the wine chillers and snacks and hurricane candles for a romantic ambiance. Hanging string lights from a pagoda or trees is also a good call. Just bring any non-waterproof decor inside at the end of the movie, in case it rains.

What is Cinemood 360?

The one Lund used in this set-up is the Cinemood 360, which is great for families since it has built-in access to interactive and educational content for kids (along with all the go-to streaming services, too.)

Where to put a portable screen?

You could set up a portable screen or sheet in the front or backyard with a stand (many come with them) or against the exterior wall of the home. If you don't have any yard space, try it in the driveway against your garage door, or strung up between two trees. You could also watch from the pool or hot tub if you have one.

Who is the senior editor of House Beautiful?

Hadley Mendelsohn Senior Editor Hadley Mendelsohn is House Beautiful's senior editor, and when she's not busy obsessing over all things decor-related, you can find her scouring vintage stores, reading, or stumbling about because she probably lost her glasses again.

Can you use bluetooth speakers outside?

Whether you already have an outdoor speaker system set up or you just want to wing it with a portable bluetooth audio, make sure the speakers are loud enough to compete with the outdoor elements like wind.

Can you buy a Cinemood 360 projector?

Cinemood 360. You can buy projectors and screens as a pair for what is supposedly optimal pixel quality, but you only really need to do that for a permanent installation or more serious viewing. Otherwise, you just need a good, reliable projector that you can also use indoors.

Is it better to use a screen or a sheet?

A screen will inherently have less wrinkles in it than a sheet, which is optimal for clear movie-watching. But if you do use a sheet, make sure you pull it super taut when you secure it to either a stand or a vertical flat surface.

What are the seating options at a backyard movie night?

This dreamy backyard movie night is made extra special with a variety of comfortable seating options. There are chairs, blankets, bean bags, and pillows so movie-goers can create their own comfy seats.

What seasonings are used in a popcorn topper bar?

There are guides for cinnamon, kettle, white cheddar, and salt seasonings, but you can also create whatever flavor you think your guests would like.

How to keep drinks cool during a movie night?

Here's an innovative way to keep drinks cool during a summer movie night. Take an inflatable raft and add ice. Place your favorite beverages on the ice and wait until they're ice cold and ready to drink.

What do you put in a room to make it feel like home?

String lights, lanterns, and candles add to the ambiance, creating a space that you'll never want to leave.

What soundbars will be available in 2021?

Read more: Best soundbar for 2021: Yamaha, Klipsch, Vizio, Sonos and more. Don't forget that you'll need a cable to connect it to the projector. Nearly all projectors have an analog audio output, which can connect to most soundbars including Vizio.

How much does an Anker sound boom weigh?

Anker's $95 Soundcore Motion Boom is what Executive Editor David Carnoy calls a mini boombox speaker. It has a big handle, weighs a little over 4 pounds, and even floats.

How to get something to watch on outdoor projector?

The easiest way to get something to watch on your outdoor projector is via a streaming stick. Most modern projectors have a USB connection so you can connect a streaming stick without running an additional power cord. We like the Roku Streaming Stick Plus for its ease of use and wide range of content options.

How much is the BenQ GV1?

The BenQ GV1 ($270 ) is cute, inexpensive and portable, but dim and lower resolution (480p) than tke Anker.

What happens if you watch a movie in one?

The only problem with watching a movie in one is that you'll be asleep halfway through the second act. Nothing wrong with that.

Is a soundbar better than a Bluetooth speaker?

A good soundbar will be significantly louder than a Bluetooth speaker, and probably sound a lot better too. We like this inexpensive Vizio, which we've said "If you want to buy a soundbar on a budget, it's tough to do better than this" and that its sound is "unhurried and natural.". Read our Vizio V21 review .

Can a projector be used outdoors?

Any projector will work , but the brighter it is, the easier it will be to see the picture. That's especially important outdoors, when even on a dark night some ambient light -- from your neighbors, your deck lights or tiki torches -- can affect the picture.

1. Avoid open wires and cables

Safety comes first, even at backyard movie nights! Creating a backyard movie experience means having many wires and cables lying around.

2. Avoid using a bedsheet as an outdoor movie screen

Using a white sheet to project your movie will ruin all the hard work you’ve done in creating a movie theater in your backyard. Do you want to know why?

5. Avoid pests and rodents around the venue

When your guests arrive for the movie night, you want to make them as comfortable as possible while watching the movie. Avoid having pests or rodents in your backyard.

6. Avoid Technical issues

Imagine everyone is gathered in your backyard, ready to start the movie night, but suddenly the movie projector is not working. This is the fastest way to ruin and possibly end a movie night earlier than it should.

Final Thoughts

Hosting a backyard movie night is a great way to sit down and watch an excellent movie with the people you love, so you should do it right when you do.

How far back should a projector be from a screen?

In order to project a larger image, projectors will typically need to be set further back from the screen. If your projector needs to be sat 25 feet back from the screen to get the 180 inches wide projection, you are going to need that room in your backyard to project over.

What is the best thing about inflatable movie screens?

The great thing about an inflatable movie screen is that you can buy models which are very, very big , offering a large screen experience that’s unrivalled in most backyard movie parties.

How wide is a projector?

Let’s say you have a movie screen hanging in your backyard that is 180 inches wide. It stands to reason that you will want a projector than can project at that type of width so you get the best image possible. In order to project a larger image, projectors will typically need to be set further back from the screen.

What does it mean when a wall is low?

Low walls and fences will mean you cannot project to a high enough level that’s comfortable for your guests at which to view the movie. There will also be the issue of the wall or fence not being completely flat – they are almost bound to have marks and undulations on which will warp the movie image.

How many lumens should an outdoor projector have?

As a rough guide though, don’t buy anything with less than 2,000 lumens. That should mean you have a good quality image at night-time.

What does lumen rating mean on a projector?

In real simple terms, the lumen rating of your projector tells you how much light it can emit. Projectors with higher lumen ratings will be able to project better quality images. They can reduce the effect of artificial light sources that could interfere with the projected movie.

Why is my air blower so noisy?

The air blower can be noisy due to the constant fan sound. Being relatively cheap means they offer a great option for those shopping on a budget. But for me, the additional complexity of having to power the air motor blower constantly when the inflatable movie screen is up, is a pain.

The Projector

• You couldhost a movie night outside by hauling a big screen HDTV out the back door and setting it up on the patio, but we’ll be frank with you: it simply doesn’t have the same magic feeling. Sure it’s novel and a nice change of pace (and the kids might be entertained by the new viewing arrangement) but to really capture the essence of backyard movi...

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The Media Player

The Sound System

The screen

The Extras

The Final Word on Backyard Movie Night