How to make an outdoor cinema that will get a 5-star rating

Are you looking for an exciting way to spend your summer evenings? Having a movie night in your own garden is a summer tradition that we can all enjoy. The great news is, that there are actually multiple ways you can create a home cinema, and make it relatively inexpensive. What is an important ingredient, however, is imagination. Read on so we can spark yours. 

There are some essential items you’ll need to create this event, and most of these you may already have at home. Whether you are creating a solo sanctuary or planning to invite your friends and family, you can learn from these 10 tips on how to create an outdoor home cinema experience:

The first thing you need to do is to find a perfect spot for your screening. This one is really important, otherwise, the viewing experience won't be as enjoyable. Before you choose, you might want to monitor where the sun shines in different areas of the garden, as this will impact whether you need to create shade using a canopy or sun shade. Whether you are setting up your cinema in your garden or on a roof terrace, make sure that the area is dry and protected from the wind.

Using a projector for your outdoor cinema is definitely the best way to create an authentic experience. And I know what you might be thinking - “that sounds expensive". Portable projectors have come a long way in the last few years, and are now more compact, quiet and affordable. The projector should be capable of projecting images at least 15 feet wide, and the projector screen should be at least 9 feet wide. The great news is, that you can use anything that can create a white backdrop for the projector screen. White sheets or even just a painted white wall are really popular to use with a projector. 

Who usually upgrades to the extra comfy seats at the cinema? It should be no different at home. You may already have outdoor garden furniture that would be great to use for your cinema seating. However, for the extra cosy vibe, a day bed works perfectly. Pulling together so that you can recline in the ultimate comfort, or splitting up into individual sections for when you have more guests, this is a really versatile piece. If possible, we suggest you over-cater for how many people are coming so that guests can stretch out and relax in the space.

If you have opted for a projector with Bluetooth, this makes it super easy to achieve the best sound. Pairing Bluetooth speakers & the projector seamlessly takes seconds and is wireless. We know we don’t need to remind you that speakers are one of the most important parts of your movie night! Do a trial run first to ensure you get the volume right, and there are no challenges with pairing.

These days, we want things to “just work”. We don’t expect any tech malfunctions, and no one wants an interruption while watching a movie, right? To avoid this, check everything well in advance - especially your internet connection to avoid hassle and stress. You can do a trial run and stream the movie in advance to avoid any interruptions. Worried about your connection strength? Consider using a wifi range extender if the spot you’ve chosen is quite far out from the main house.

Of course, having delicious snacks and drinks are a must for your movie night. Those summer nights can stay pretty warm so consider a way to keep the drinks cool - industrial-styled ice buckets are a great shout for the garden. To avoid any unnecessary trips inside, choose snacks and drinks that don't require much prep, and consider stashing them in a cute floral cool bag. 

When considering how to make movie night at home fun, the atmosphere is everything. Of course, you want it dark, but not too dark. Use decorative string lights to create an ambience, without risking interrupting the screen. Don’t forget, there will need to be a clear and safe path back to the house so that you and your guests can access the facilities, so consider adding some solar lights to illuminate the pathway. 

Who doesn’t like to have a comfy setup during your movie night? Bring out your blankets, throws, and outdoor cushions - we want it all. A gorgeous patterned outdoor rug will soften the seating area underfoot. Consider whether you might want to lay down or sit up - pouffes, bean bags and floor cushions are fantastic for creating extra seating solutions when you have more guests than expected!

A twinkling of slow-burning and beautifully scented candles is a perfect way to set the mood. For added safety consider getting some lanterns for your candles.  One thing to consider is that nighttime gardens often attract mosquitoes and other insects - which is the last thing we want. Of course, this is optional, but you may wish to think ahead with insect repellent or opt for citronella candles to repel the insects and ensure they don’t distract you from the movie.

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again. Perform a test! Testing all of the components together is the final job before you start your movie night. Make sure to test out everything, even the smallest details so that the evening will run smoothly.

 

Now that you have all the important details on what to prepare for the outdoor cinema, here are some of our favourite theme night ideas you can use to create an event that isn’t just your typical movie night!

Whether you love Fifa or Minecraft, why not challenge your pals to a gaming night in the great outdoors? There’s nothing like witnessing your victory on the giant screen.

What could be more romantic than watching a rom-com under the stars? Add some cosy blankets and extra candles and this is an outdoor date night you won’t forget in a hurry.

Why not really embrace the elements and camp out? Hosting a girly sleepover (whatever your age!) is always a great idea - just add pyjamas, music and snacks.

Whether it’s footie, rugby or tennis you love, finding a great atmosphere to watch the big match in can be tricky. Create the perfect sports bar in your own garden at home. Grab some deck chairs to lay on some extra seating and enjoy.

 

The options are endless, but one thing is for sure, it’s absolutely going to be worth investing in the perfect setup. A lot of your decorative items such as artificial trailing plants, rugs and cushions can be re-purposed from indoors, so take the time to consider the pieces you’ve already got and the bits you still need. Creating a versatile space that can be used day and night offer the function of an additional reception room in your house, and you’re sure to be the envy of all of your friends!

 

If you’re planning an outdoor cinema party at home and want some additional ideas, check out this piece on how to host a Caribbean party for more inspiration.