Summer is in full swing, and there’s no better time to enjoy every amenity your home has to offer. If you’re looking for a way to make the most of your outdoor living space beyond the usual cookout, an outdoor movie night is a simple way to keep the evening going once the sun starts to set. All you really need is a screen, some comfortable seating, and a good movie. Here’s how to pull it off.
Choose the Right Screen
While a white sheet will do in a pinch, investing in a portable or inflatable movie screen makes the whole setup easier and gives you a cleaner picture every time. Paired with a quality projector, it turns any backyard into a proper outdoor theater.
Wait for Real Dark
Projectors need actual darkness to look their best, which in Naperville this time of year usually means waiting until close to 9 p.m. Plan your start time accordingly and let the extra daylight work in your favor for setup and appetizers beforehand.
Sound That Fills the Yard
A portable JBL speaker is an easy way to get rich, reliable sound without any extra wiring. For something more immersive, try placing a few lantern-style speakers around the seating area to create a surround sound effect, even outdoors.
Comfortable Seating for Everyone
Lawn chairs work, but blankets, bean bags, and a few extra cushions on the ground make the whole thing feel more like an event and less like you’re just watching TV outside. Mixing seating heights also helps everyone actually see the screen.
Keep the Bugs Away
Nothing ends a movie night faster than mosquitoes. Citronella candles around the seating area, plus a bug spray station for guests, go a long way. String lights along the edges of your space also help set the mood once it gets dark.
Once you’ve got the basics down, backyard movie night becomes one of those simple pleasures that’s easy to repeat all summer long, whether it’s a big group or just a quiet night in with the people you love.
Backyard Movie Night Essentials Links*
Projector Screen & Stand | Bluetooth Projector | Outdoor String Lights | Striped Outdoor Bean Bag Lounge Chair | Citronella Candle | Double Walled Beverage Tub | Fluffy Blanket | Popcorn Boxes | Bluetooth Lantern Speakers
*As an Amazon Associate, we sometimes use affiliate links in our content. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links at no extra cost to you.
Not sure your current backyard has the space for a movie night crowd? The Ville Team can help you find a home with the outdoor living area you’ve been picturing, whether that means a bigger yard, a patio built for entertaining, or both. Contact The Ville Team today!