As we eagerly await the arrival of summer, there’s no better way to enjoy these warmer evenings than with an outdoor movie night with your loved ones. Whether you have a backyard, terrace, or small balcony, you can easily transform it into a cozy outdoor theatre with little effort.
So break out the blankets, pillows and popcorn and set up your own starlit cinema by following these simple steps. And for the perfect movie night feature, tune in to the series premiere of Apples Never Fall, starting Thursday, March 21 on W Network.
@hgtvcanada Us turning all our fav indoor activities into outdoor ones during the summer #summeractivities #backyarddiy #outdoortheatre #portableprojector ♬ DC Elibailar – Eli 💫
Materials Required:
- Projector
- Projector screen (a soft hanging screen is shown here, but one with a stand works too)
- Extension cord (if required)
- Hooks
- Double-sided stickies
- Comfortable seating (such as loungers and chairs)
- Lounging cushions
- Outdoor rug
- Cozy blankets
- Snacks and beverages
- Added bonus: string lights for extra ambiance
Step 1: Find a Premium Location
Determine the best spot to set up your theatre. If you’re using a soft projector screen that requires hanging, then a flat surface (such as a fence that is free of debris) would be ideal. If you’re using a free-standing projector screen, make sure the ground is level.
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Step 2: Set Up Your Screen
Since I chose to secure my soft screen onto my fence, I gathered a few hooks and heavy duty double-sided stickies to get the job done. Make sure the fence isn’t wet or covered in dirt. The hooks don’t stay on great on wet wood (you wouldn’t want your movie to be interrupted half-way through!). I recommend securing the top midpoint of the screen first, then fastening on the two top corners, before finally securing the bottom portion.
Step 3: Arrange Your Seating Area
Place comfortable seating in cozy theatre style. I used a couple of loungers, but those can easily be swapped out for foldable chairs, chaise loungers or even floor seating.
Step 4: Set Up the Projector
Find a small table with an optimal height to rest the projector on. Be sure to have access to an electrical outlet, and if need be, have an extension cord handy. Follow the manual to set up the projector to ensure optimal, movie-worthy results.
Step 5: Create Extra Comfort
Maximize the cozy factor for you and your movie-night guests with extra decor elements like an outdoor rug, comfy blankets and fluffy cushions.
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Step 6: Serve Treats and Beverages
It’s not a movie night without snacks! Treat guests or family members to popcorn, their favourite candies and chilled beverages.
Step 7: Press Play, Sit Back and Enjoy!
And there you have it: a low-effort way to maximize your outdoor time this summer with a fun movie night right in your own backyard.
