What do you need for a backyard movie night year-round?
With many movie theaters still closed, watching new movie releases at home has become a great family event. It’s great to spend a night on the couch, but it’s a whole different experience when you can get family and friends together in your backyard for a movie night.
How to prepare for a backyard movie night
Electronics
Make sure you have your electronics in order. Between your projector, screen and speakers, you don’t get any wires crossed. Not only do you want to do a practice run to ensure everything runs properly before your event, but it doesn’t hurt to get a savvy friend to double-check your setup.
If you opt to continue your tradition of family movie nights after the summer ends, you might need to invest in an outdoor heater because the temperature can drop when the sun goes down.
Food
Food and movies go hand-in-hand. You could serve traditional movie theater snacks, or have a full cook-out on the grill, bring out a cooler full of drinks or even make your guests a more traditional meal. It also wouldn’t hurt to have an outdoor bar nearby.
Seating
One thing nobody misses about movie theaters is the seats, so when hosting a backyard movie night, you can offer your guests much more comfortable options. Still, some guests might prefer breaking out the lounge chair or rolling out a blanket, so they can lie out on the lawn.
Best backyard movie projectors
XOPPOX Projector Bluetooth HD Outdoor Movie Projector
This brand new 2021 model has all the latest features to make your backyard movie night the event to attend. Based on market research, the makers of this projector added WIFI speakers that sync with the screen. It’s also 85% brighter than most portable projectors.
Sold by Amazon
GPX Mini Projector with Projection Screen in White
This is a budget-friendly option with everything you need to ensure backyard movie night success, including a foldable 150-inch projection screen. It’s easy to both pack up and assembles at a moment's notice. The LED bulbs have a 20,000-hour life and comes with built-in speakers.
Sold by Bed Bath & Beyond
Best backyard movie projector accessories
VIVOHOME 15 Feet Indoor and Outdoor Inflatable Blow up Mega Movie Projector Screen
Not every projector comes with a screen, at least not one like this. This inflatable movie screen uses high-quality Oxford cloth that is weather-resistant, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use. The easy-to-inflate design and the quiet fan pump make this an excellent option for any backyard movie night.
Sold by Amazon
Projector Tripod Stand, Universal Aluminum Laptop Projector Stand
This multi-functional stand can be used for many electronics and is perfect for movie projectors with its adjustable height and angles. It’s made from durable aluminum with non-slip pads and locks for support while also lightweight and portable.
Sold by Amazon
Best outdoor seating for backyard movie nights
AlphaBeing Inflatable Lounger
Your guests will be incredibly comfortable in this inflatable lounger with anti-deflation technology that they’ll want to stick around for a double feature. Designed with an ergonomic head pillow, can opener and storage pockets, you have everything you need to sit back, relax and enjoy the show.
Sold by Amazon
CleverMade Inflatable Lounger Air Chair
Recline and enjoy your movie while lounging in this self-inflating chair. Made from nylon, non-rip fabric stronger than any other inflatable recliner on the market, this chair weighs only three pounds but can hold up to 500 pounds. It's perfect for romantic movie nights or snuggling with the whole family.
Sold by Amazon
Intex Inflatable Corner Sectional Sofa & Ultra Lounge Chair and Ottoman Set
When you invite family and friends over for an outdoor movie, you won’t have to worry about where everyone will sit with this complete set of outdoor inflatable furniture that is both stylish and modern. It utilizes sturdy PVC vinyl, is ultra-comfortable and long-lasting.
Sold by Amazon
Best outdoor movie decor and accessories
Alder Creek Movie Night Gift Set
Every good movie night needs snacks, and with this snack pack, you’ll have everyone's cravings covered. This top-of-the-line gourmet gift set includes truffle cookies, gummies, fun-dip, popcorn and more.
Sold by Bed Bath & Beyond
Snappy Maze Craze Combo Movie Popcorn Trays
Turn your backyard movie night into a real-deal movie theater party with a kid-friendly combo tray to hold soda, movie and popcorn. These bright and colorful trays are easy to assemble and store.
Sold by Amazon
Superior Popcorn Company Commercial Style Popcorn Machine
Dazzle your guests with delicious homemade popcorn when using this antique-inspired carnival-design popcorn maker. This stainless steel popper has a built-in warmer, stirrer and heated warming decks to keep your snacks at the perfect temperature the whole movie.
Sold by Home Depot
Patio Essentials 18 Oz. Printed Bucket Citronella Candle
Bugs could ruin the best movie night, but you won’t need to worry with this giant candle made from real citronella oil to repel all sorts of pests, including the dreaded mosquito. This candle is safe for both people and pets but is made for outdoor use only.
Sold by Amazon
Glitter Garden Store Movie Theme Photography Backdrop
Turn your backyard movie night into a red carpet experience with a striking outdoor backdrop. This one uses 100% polyester fabric, and you can use it to document all of your movie night events.
Sold by Amazon
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Ryan Dempsey writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
