How To Set Up an Outdoor Movie Night

A couple watching a movie with friends at an outdoor movie night.

Summer is the perfect time for all sorts of fun activities, and one of the most fun is an outdoor movie! There’s truly something magical about watching a movie outdoors, under the stars and, if you’re lucky, a full moon. Of course, setting up an outdoor movie takes a little bit of effort and planning. You’ll need specialized equipment, as well as plenty of seating. The right snacks can also turn a fun movie night into one that’s exceptional.

Not sure what you need or how to set up everything? If yes, the information below is perfect! It’s the best tips and hacks for how to set up an outdoor movie night, brought to you by NSA Storage! Discover how to delight your friends and family this summer with a movie under the stars, below!

Outdoor Movie Equipment Checklist

Two young girls sitting outside on a blanket in front of a projector screen.

Setting up an outdoor movie isn’t extremely difficult but does take some specialized equipment. Luckily, most items are either reusable, or easy to rent. They include:

1. A Projector

By far the most important piece of equipment you’ll need, be sure your projector is at least 2000 lumens. This will ensure that you have a bright, clear picture once the sun sets. Also, be sure the projector you choose can connect to the device you’re using.

2. A Movie Screen

Large outdoor movie screens can, unfortunately, be quite expensive. You can buy one, of course, but you can also hang a large, white sheet instead; just hang it on one of your home’s walls or a clothesline. Projecting onto one of your home’s walls also works, although it’s best if that wall is painted white. Whatever you choose, make sure your screen is smooth and wrinkle-free so the picture is perfect.

3. Speakers

Most projectors have built-in speakers but, unfortunately, they don’t produce a lot of volume. Better to have a portable Bluetooth speaker available or several plug-in external speakers. That way, everyone will be able to hear the movie.

4. A Media Player

Whatever movie you choose, you’ll need a device to play it. It could be your laptop, a streaming device (Roku, Fire TV Stick, Google TV Streamer, etc.) or a DVD player. Whatever you choose, it will need to have a connector or dongle that connects to your projector.

5. Power Cords

Last but not least, you’ll need several power strips or extension cords to connect everything to a power source. Make sure you keep them organized to prevent trips and falls. Also, some duct tape to tape cords down in high-traffic walking areas is a good idea.

The Best Snacks for an Outdoor Movie

Many folks would argue that a movie is only as good as the snacks being served. From simple popcorn to a full-blown meal, below are a few food and snack suggestions for your outdoor movie night:

  • S’Mores– If you’re setting up a fire pit, S’mores are a great choice. You’ll need marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate bars, plus someone to watch the kids while they make them.
  • A Popcorn Bar– Popcorn is the ultimate movie night snack. To take yours up a notch, set up a popcorn bar with toppings like cheese powder, caramel, pretzels, chocolate sauce, M&Ms, etc.
  • A Drink Station– You can offer soda, lemonade and other nonalcoholic beverages if your movie night includes children. For the adults, you can also set up the same station with adult beverages.
  • Simple Movie Night Dinner Options– Serving a full-blown meal to your guests at your movie night is a lot of work. Better to give them some simple options like hotdogs, premade sandwiches, or sliders. You can make things ahead of time and keep them warm so that you don’t miss anything once the movie starts.
  • Prepackaged Snacks– For a movie night with mostly kids, prepackaged snacks are great. Chips, juice boxes, ice cream bars, and other snacks are easy to serve and clean up.

How To Set Up Seating to Keep Guests Comfy

A group of friends having an outdoor movie night.

An outdoor movie night is just that; outdoors. That means you’ll need some type of seating to keep everyone comfy while they watch. One of the easiest methods is to use folding camp chairs and loungers. You can also use bean bag chairs, blankets and pills, and picnic tables.

Be sure to arrange chairs with high backs towards the back so they don’t block the screen. Also, citronella candles and bug spray should be on hand to keep pests away.

Outdoor Movie Night Decorations and Special Touches

There’s no denying that an outdoor movie Is already a lot of fun. To take yours to the next level, however, feel free to add these special touches and decorations:

  • String Lights– These add charm and also help everyone move around without tripping.
  • A Fire Pit– Even in summer, it can get chilly at night. A fire pit will keep everybody warm and comfy. A portable heater also works in a pinch.
  • Decorations– Flags, movie posters and other decorations can make your outdoor movie space more inviting and magical.

Store Your Equipment with NSA Storage

There’s no denying that an outdoor movie night is exciting and fun for everyone. Indeed, it’s a lot more fun than you might expect! The tips and hacks provided today will help you create a movie night that’s exciting and memorable for everyone!

If you throw an annual movie night in summer, renting a storage unit from NSA Storage could be very helpful. It will give you the extra space you need to store chairs, blankets, gear and other movie night essentials. You can easily reserve a storage unit online to store all of your gear and any other summer essentials. Until that time, have a great summer and we’ll see you at the movies!