How to host a spectacular backyard movie night

Jorie Nicole McDonald, SouthernLiving.com on Jul 2, 2024

Great weather is the perfect excuse to get your friends and family together for an outdoor extravaganza that everyone is sure to remember. The best part? It’s way easier than it sounds.

Start with a theme. Plan your party around the movie you’ll be showing. Is “Pretty In Pink” your film of choice? Deck out your backyard with girly, pink décor, and serve a rosy cocktail like our raspberry beer recipe. Will everyone be watching “Fried Green Tomatoes”? Be sure to have fried green tomatoes on the menu and a sign that says “Welcome to the Whistle Stop Café.”

With a little bit of planning and a few easy make-ahead recipes in your arsenal, you’ll be well on your way to hosting an unforgettable backyard movie night. Continue reading to learn some easy tips and tricks to ensure your party goes off without a hitch.

How to host an outdoor movie night

Entrance

The entrance to any party is key. It instantly sets the tone of the event. Be sure to place your favorite food items and decorations up front so guests will spot the unique embellishments as soon as they walk in.

Featured recipe

No bash is complete without a scrumptious recipe. Choose a main dish that complements the theme of the movie.

Outdoor movie screen

Of course, you’ll need a movie screen to show the film of choice. We suggest hanging a white sheet with a rope and drapery hooks. Then simply use a projector to stream the film for everyone to see.

Air mattress

But where will everyone sit? It’s a valid question with an easy answer. Ask all of your party guests to bring air mattresses, blankets, and pillows. It’s an inexpensive and fun way to provide seating for everyone. And it creates an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity.

Tiki torches

Lining the perimeter of your outdoor movie night with Tiki torches creates a relaxing ambience, and they will keep those pesky mosquitoes away.

Beverages

Be sure to have some chilled beverages ready to go.

Showtime sign

Adding an adorable showtime sign to your outdoor movie party immediately gets guests excited for the event. And it will remind them what time the movie is set to begin.

String lights

Hanging string lights around the event will provide extra illumination, and who doesn’t love twinkling lights to set the vibe?

Themed dessert

Try to choose something that’s easy to make and super portable, like cookies or brownies.

Themed sign

For an extra touch, place chalkboards with notable movie quotes around your outdoor movie bash. Your party guests will appreciate the extra effort.

Popcorn

It’s arguably the most essential part of movie night: popcorn. Take it up a notch with various popcorn seasonings for an extra flare.

(Southern Living is a lifestyle magazine aimed at readers in the Southern United States featuring recipes, house plans, garden plans, and information about Southern culture and travel. Online at www.southernliving.com.)