As the long summer evenings are upon us, what better time to turn your backyard into a party central? Having a space for outdoor movie nights and summer fun not only maximizes your home’s potential but also serves as a great place to make memories with family and friends.
This article will walk you through how to turn your ordinary backyard into an epic outdoor entertainment area to host movie nights and summer parties that rival any festival.
Designing Your Outdoor Entertainment Area
Turning your backyard into a party ground starts with design. Begin by measuring your space and imagining different zones for different activities. Designate a central area for your movie screen and seating, with good sightlines from multiple angles. Use a bare wall of your house or garage as a backdrop for the projector screen or a standalone screen that can be set up as needed.
Next to the viewing area, create a lounge space for pre-movie hangouts or intermissions. Furnish this area with weatherproof sofas, oversized floor cushions, and low tables to create a VIP festival lounge vibe. Don’t forget to leave space for food and drinks, whether it’s a simple setup with folding tables or a full outdoor kitchen or bar area.
Outdoor flooring
For an outdoor cinema, the flooring area has a lot of functional and aesthetic benefits. It can contribute to the beauty and ambience of the area. For instance, adding a low-maintenance composite decking can create a comfortable, inviting vibe. It is kid-friendly and neither splinters nor gets slippery. The fact that is manufactured using plastic and wooden materials can positively impact the acoustics of the area.
The Big Screen: Outdoor Movie Equipment
The heart of your outdoor cinema is your screen. For the screen, consider a purpose-built outdoor movie screen, a DIY option with a large white sheet or special projector screen paint, or a permanent installation if you’re going to be having movie nights regularly.
When choosing a projector look for one with at least 3000 lumens to combat outdoor light. Many projectors come with built-in speakers but investing in a separate sound system will make a huge difference to the audio. Also, choose between wireless Bluetooth speakers for flexibility or weatherproof mounted speakers for a more permanent solution.
Seating and Accessories
Your outdoor event’s success often comes down to guest comfort. Offer different types of seating such as bean bags and outdoor sofas. For a festival feel, create tiered seating with hay bales covered with blankets or outdoor cushions.
Ask guests to bring their own blankets and pillows and consider adding outdoor rugs to define seating areas and make them cosier. For cooler evenings, add outdoor heating options like propane patio heaters or a fire pit to keep guests warm and create a focal point.
Food and Drink Stations
No festival is complete without good food and drink. Create a concession stand-style area with movie classics like popcorn, candy, and soda. Consider a popcorn machine for a fun theatrical touch.
For bigger gatherings, an outdoor grill or pizza oven can be the hub of your summer fun. Add healthy options like a salad bar or fruit platter to go along with the indulgences.
A dedicated drink station is a must. Stock lots of drinks and consider creating a signature drink for your events. Large drink dispensers with lemonade, iced tea or punch allow guests to serve themselves. For extra pizzazz, set up a small outdoor bar, either a bar cart or a built-in with a fridge and running water.
Setting the Scene: Decor and Atmosphere
The right decor can turn your backyard into a party wonderland. In addition to functional lighting, add decorative options like lanterns, tiki torches, or colour-changing LED lights. Bunting, banners, and flags in a matching colour scheme will add a fun touch.
Use potted plants and flowers to soften the space and add some natural beauty. For movie nights, go Hollywood with a red carpet, life-size cardboard cutouts of movie stars, or even a photo backdrop.
Fun Extras and Activities
You can go full festival mode by creating a small stage for live music, karaoke, or amateur theatre. Lawn games like cornhole or giant Jenga for pre-movie or daytime events. A dedicated kids’ area with face painting or a bubble machine.
For movie lovers, create a “walk of fame” with guest handprints or signatures on concrete stepping stones or a themed photo booth area.
Conclusion
The key to a great backyard entertainment space is versatility. Design your space so it can be used for different types of events, from family movie nights to big summer parties. With comfortable seating, high-quality audio-visual equipment, festive decor, and thoughtful amenities, you’ll have a space you and your guests will keep coming back to.
