With summer approaching, people are looking for creative ideas to do things in their backyard. Backyard games can become boring after a time, for those blessed with large backyards and patios. One way to keep things exciting in the backyard is to have a nice outdoor backyard movie theater. Not only a backyard movie theater will excite the kids, but it is a great way to have some fun family time and encourage bonding over the long summer vacations.
So, rather than purchasing expensive movie tickets and stale popcorn, create your outdoor movie theater with the perfect vibe. Here are some unique and creative outdoor backyard movie theater ideas you can try outdoors in tiny to large backyard setups.
Minimalist Outdoor Movie Theatre
If you have a minimalist patio outdoor décor, the outdoor home movie theater should live up to a similar theme. This idea is especially useful for a narrow backyard or a pathway that can be used as an outdoor movie theater. Opt for an L-shaped outdoor wooden bench paired with a thick rug and floor cushions for multiple sitting options. You can add tiny stools and cushioned chairs for extra seats too. Use the front wall to hang the projector, and for a gentler vibe, add strings of fairy lights from one side of the wall to the other.
Outdoor Backyard Theatre with Fire Pit
A movie theater that is versatile all year round. Place the projector on a large wide wall so everyone has the best viewing angle. For sufficient sitting options, take a large couch or an outdoor sofa set that is cozy and filled with cushions. Rather than having a center table, keep a fire pit in between so each person gets the same amount of warmth. You can have a tiny table in the corner for drinks and food.
Go with String lights.
String lights are a more affordable alternative to fire pits for creating multipurpose mood lighting. Plus, they are highly inexpensive too. The possibilities are endless with them because they are affordable and adaptable. If you have an outside shelter, add them to the beams for an overhead lighting effect. If not, wrap them around the plants and trees surrounding your view. Twinkle lights are fantastic since they don’t have the same negative overshadow effects on the screen as a strong overhead light, and you can control them with the best outdoor smart plugs.
Poolside Movie Theater
For a poolside movie theater, there are a lot of ideas you can work with. Firstly, have an outdoor bar set on either side of the pool for drinks and food during the move. Consider a large L-shaped sofa or foldable lounge chairs aligned perfectly in front of the screen for seating options. Make sure to have some lighting so the pool and the water are visible. For a more romantic effect, you can also scatter some candles and petals over the pool and have a backyard movie date.
Rooftop Movie Theater Ideas
If you don’t have sufficient space for backyard movie theater ideas, the rooftop can be a great view under the night sky for a cozy movie time. Use comfortable wooden furniture to complete the rooftop movie theater vibe. Add a touch of fairy lights or tall lamps on either corner of the roof for a gentle lighting effect. Make sure the projector is mounted at a safe height for an easy viewing angle.
Movie time with Food
You can chat while grilling burgers and steaks and have a wonderful movie while eating food. This saves the double trouble of buying movie snacks too. Mount a large screen on the central wall of the backyard. Place your outdoor table or outdoor dining set right in front of the table but ensure each person has a clear viewing angle. While you enjoy warm food, a nice fun movie will create the perfect vibe.
Green Outdoor Theater Ideas
If it’s about outdoor home theater ideas, shouldn’t it give an outdoor vibe? In a lush setting, a green backyard movie theater appears stunning. Opt for materials made of wood and stone to blend well with the environment. You can relax on the loungers and watch the movie while taking in the peaceful effects of nature. Additionally, you can construct a cabinet for your big screen and add protection if you have a backyard with a lot of greenery.
Focus on Comfort Too
To create a vintage camp atmosphere, decorate your outdoor theater with Pendleton blankets and a mountain of cushions. Bring out the wine chillers, canapés, and hurricane candles for a romantic atmosphere. Another smart idea is to dangle string lights from trees or pagodas. Just bring any non-waterproof decorations inside after the film, just in case.
Get a Cozy Couch
If you have a backyard, you probably have some outdoor seating options and other kinds of furniture too. But when it comes to outdoor backyard theater, we need comfort. Bring the indoor home furniture outside for outdoor movie night to make a perfect cozy setup. Use lots of pillows or a couch with built-in cushions that remains inside your home. Make sure to add style with lots of throw blankets and candles mounted on the sides of your couch.
Outdoor Kitchen
Who would get time to work in a kitchen amidst a movie? So an outdoor kitchen is a smart idea to make warm hot snacks and enjoy the movie. Fortunately, outdoor kitchens are currently very popular, regardless of your budget or backyard size. It can significantly improve the experience, even if you simply need beverages cooler and counter for your movie theater-themed snacks.
Picnic Basket
Moms know the entire family has a different selection of movie snacks, but we don’t want moms to be in the kitchen during the entire movie. If you don’t have an outdoor kitchen, packing a picnic basket outdoors is a smart idea. This way, everyone has their choice of snacks, and the basket keeps them warm for a sufficient time.
Invest in a Sound System
The best screens and the perfect movie are up to no good if you don’t have the right sound system. Especially for an outdoor setting, you need to be careful with the types of speakers you choose. Ensure the speakers are sound-centric and comfortable and don’t disturb the entire neighborhood. Another factor to look for in outdoor movie speakers is their being waterproof.
