Warm days and cool nights have finally arrived in Central Oregon and it’s time to make that summer bucket list. One “must do” to add to your list that combines food, entertainment and gathering with friends and family is a backyard dinner and movie under the stars! Creating a unique cinema experience for all ages in the comfort of your own home is not a one-time event. Once you have the right equipment and a plan, this is an enjoyable experience that can be repeated, with a different movie and menu each time.
Setting the Scene
Selecting the best technology for your budget and outdoor environment takes time, research and reading a lot of reviews. When starting the process of setting up your outdoor theater, make sure the screen and projector can be at least ten feet away from each other. Outdoor movie screens come in several different sizes and materials. The blowup versions that require an air pump can be pricier; however, they’ll last the longest. There are smaller versions that sit on stands and usually roll up nicely for easy storage. If DIY is on the brain, a clean, pressed, white sheet affixed to the house or PVC pipe will do, if it can withstand a little Central Oregon breeze.
Once you have a screen, it’s time to secure a projector for the desired experience. Modern home theater projectors offer brilliant picture quality, great sound and bright images that are perfect for a movie when it gets dark. Look for a projector that has at least 1080p (pixels) and can handle projecting on a screen size up to 250 inches.
Sound and media playing capabilities are very important to your outdoor movie night. Most projectors have built-in speakers. However, having an extra set to enhance the surround sound will make the experience that much better. Projectors that take Blu-ray or HDMI media will take an extra step to set up. New model projectors have streaming stick capabilities and are the easiest to use with external sound equipment.
For seating, set up plenty of comfy blankets and pillows on either the grass or deck, and perhaps near an outdoor fire pit.
Movies
Once the technology is set up and ready to go, it’s time to pick the movie and the menu! There are tons of classics and newer summer movies for every age group. If it’s a young kid’s night, consider an animated film like Finding Nemo, Moana, Rango or The Secret Life of Pets. If it’s a young adult night, films like The Goonies, The Never-Ending Story or E.T. are perfect choices. Adult night? Throw on Dirty Dancing, National Lampoon’s Vacation or Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Streaming services have plenty of options for classic or new release summer films in every genre.
When the night starts to cool and the movie is getting to the good part, get everyone cozied up in a blanket with a cup of hot chocolate and s’mores. Enjoy! And, see you at the (backyard) movies!
Menu Ideas for Summer Movie Nights
Beverages: Watermelon Margaritas, iced tea with fresh mint or fresh lemonade
Appetizers: veggies, dips, fruit or charcuterie boards
Grilling Ideas: classic steaks and burgers
Salads: fresh greens with hazelnuts and blue cheese for a local flair
Sides: seasonal grilled veggies like corn, asparagus and French fries
No outdoor movie night is complete without unlimited popcorn and treats!