How to Host an Outdoor Movie Night

This summer, swap out your usual Netflix on the couch for something way more exciting—an outdoor movie night! Stock up on popcorn, invite some friends and set up a movie screen in the backyard. We’ve rounded up plenty of inspiration for your cinematic soirée, from decor ideas to irresistible snack options. The only thing you’ll have to worry about: which movie will it be? This list will give you some great ideas.

Printable Magic

Your backyard will be ready for an outdoor movie night in no time thanks to these fun printables from Hostess with the Mostess. There are signs to welcome your guests, DIY popcorn boxes and even a checklist to help keep track of party prep.

Stress-Free Setup

If you’re at a loss on what projector set up to purchase, make it easy on yourself with CINEMOOD. This three-inch rechargeable cube allows you to connect to WiFi and stream Netflix, Amazon Prime or YouTube, or download content to use when offline. It even comes with educational Disney content included on the device.

Boho-Inspired Decor

Need decor inspiration for your outdoor movie night? We love this party put together by Camille Styles, complete with fluffy pillows, low tables and draped lights.

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Glamorous Vibes

With tons of lights, hammock chairs and a fire pit, this outdoor movie night set up is glamourous, yet attainable at the same time.

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Inflatable Chairs

An easy way to wow with an outdoor movie night is to have some clear inflatable chairs available for seating.

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Mattresses as Chairs

Whether it’s an overnight party or if you want to give your guests a way to stretch out, we think using blow-up mattresses is nothing short of genius.

Drive-In Seating

Bring the drive-in theater to your backyard by crafting a cute cardboard car for each kid. Hop over to Simplistically Sassy to get the details on how they’re made.

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Tiered Seating

Just like in a real movie theater, arrange your chairs so that everyone has a good view.

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A Simple Set Up

The easiest way to decorate for a movie night? Grab blankets, throw pillows and be done with it.

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Kid-Themed Charcuterie Board

A table full of kid-friendly snacks is always a way to make sure you have something every guest will like. Check out our favorite summer charcuterie boards here to be inspired.

popcorn for outdoor movie night — Corina Rainer via Unsplash

Popcorn Station

A movie night isn’t complete without popcorn! Check out our roundup of delicious popcorn recipes to find the perfect pick for your party.

Plenty of Dessert Options

What’s for dessert? You can go with classic movie candy, or, for something different, set up a cookie bar! Need recipes? Check out our favorites here.

Add S’mores Too

If you’ve got a fire pit, now’s the time to use it to its full potential! But even if you don’t, you can still make s’mores—click here for all our favorite s’mores recipes including the ultimate s’mores dip!

Coolest Backyard Ever

File this one under “dream backyard”: The Horticult has built a wow-worthy theater in their own garden. Click here to get all the details on how they did it, including 3D sketches!

—Kate Loweth & Susie Foresman

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