Between the most recently-released blockbuster movie, the latest technology, some smart planning, and a spread of snacks and drinks, this guide will explain how to create a backyard movie theater that will have the whole neighborhood peering over your picket fence to catch a glimpse.
Summer weather might get a little hot during the day, but at night, there are few places better to be than a backyard. Why not take advantage of comfortable temps and kick that backyard ambiance up a notch by screening the latest action, comedy, or animated movie from the comfort of your own yard? This guide will explain everything you need to make it happen. Keep reading to learn how to create a backyard movie theater and entertain your family all summer.
How to Create a Backyard Movie Theater
Making the backyard feel like a drive-in doesn’t have to be rocket science. The following tips will help folks make their backyard big-screen dreams come true.
You’ll Need a Good Projector
It’s almost a non-debatable fact that the most important part of a backyard movie theater is the projector. This device takes the image from a media device and projects it onto a flat surface, such as a wall, fence, or movie screen. Without a projector, you’ll have to haul a TV to the backyard (which is totally okay, as well).
There are a few things to know when shopping for a projector. First, look for a modern projector, as these models have media inputs like USB ports, as well as outputs that users can plug into their speaker system. Along with inputs, consider WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, as well. DIY movie projectionists can hook their mobile and audio devices to these projectors easily.
Second, understand that there are different types of projectors. LCD (liquid crystal display) projects are cheaper but might be able to project as clearly. LED (light emitting diode) projectors are light and energy efficient, and usually perfectly suitable for backyard movies.
DLP (digital light processing) projectors are the most advanced options and an excellent choice for garden moviegoers who don’t want to miss the finest details. These projectors are often available in different resolutions, such as 720P, 1080P, and 4K (in ascending picture quality order).
Third, price is also a consideration. Outdoor projectors aren’t bargain bin purchases, so keep in mind that a backyard theater will cost at least a few hundred dollars from a projector standpoint. For those who want the best, brightest, sharpest, and most vibrant 4K picture, the BenQ GS50 is a smash hit. However, for those who’d like a projector that could potentially pay for itself by the 5th or 6th movie at home instead of a theater, the DBPower WiFi Projector is worth a look.
The Screen: DIY or Purchase?
Next to the projector, the second most important aspect of a backyard movie night is the screen. This can be as simple as a sheet hung from a fence or as fancy as a blow-up screen designed specifically for outdoor viewing.
For folks who want to stretch their movie-hosting budget as far as it goes, the classic white sheet will do the trick. However, wrinkles and billowing ripples can quickly detract from the car chase or romantic reveal (it turns out she loves him, after all). You can staple the sheet to a homemade 2×4 frame, use rope tied to each corner to string it from the fence, or even forgo the sheet altogether and project the movie onto the side of the garage.
However, for serious movie aficionados, nothing but a purpose-built projector screen will do. The Outdoor Projection Screen from AAJK supports HD projection and measures 150 inches diagonally, though it may require some creative hanging. For something simpler, consider an inflatable model like this one from XHYCPY.
Choose Your Media Device
Years ago, one might have had a hard time figuring out which media device to use to project their favorite movie. Today’s options aren’t nearly as challenging, as everyone has a streaming device in their pockets: a smartphone. Most modern projectors allow users to stream from their smartphone to the projector, meaning any video they can pull up on their phone is fair game for the big screen.
However, there are plenty of other options, as well. Many of the best projectors come with apps already installed that allow users to link their streaming services and play movies directly from the projector. In other cases, users can install a FireStick or Roku stick directly into the projector. Probably most inconvenient of all (and we say that laughably) is toting a laptop to the backyard and using HDMI cables to connect to the projector. All of these options are very simple, meaning thousands of movies could be at the user’s fingertips for their backyard viewing pleasure.
Don’t Neglect the Audio
If there’s one thing most outdoor projectors don’t do exceptionally well, it’s project sound. Users will want to think about upgrading their audio system with a set of speakers or a soundbar to keep from missing every word of the coach’s rallying speech before the big game.
There are plenty of options here, but it’s important to look for something that will be compatible with the projector. Bluetooth might seem like the easiest option, but it may also have a lag that prevents the sound from syncing perfectly with the picture. Consider a high-quality jobsite radio like this model from Milwaukee, as it has an audio input that users can link to their projector.
For a more affordable option, this Sony soundbar can withstand short stints outside and has all the inputs required for most projectors (don’t leave it outside!). Or, for something a bit more cinema-worthy (and less budget-friendly), a dedicated outdoor soundbar like this model from Samsung will create perfect movie-quality audio.
You Can Never Have Enough Seating
No one wants to sit for two hours with a tree root poking into their backside, so be sure to give outdoor seating some thought. Patio furniture is usually a great choice so grab those wicker chairs on the deck. However, when the neighbors start popping over, patio seating will likely be at a premium. What to do, then?
Be a good usher and show your guests to their folding chairs. Kelty’s outdoor loveseat is a great choice for couples, but an inexpensive camp chair like this one from Coleman should be plenty for kids and single guests. An extra large picnic blanket can also be a big help.
Other Considerations
What’s a movie without snacks and drinks? Pack a cooler with ice and sodas, seltzers, juice boxes, and adult beverages to make sure no one goes thirsty. Also, consider setting up a folding table for chips, popcorn, candy bars, napkins, and other necessities to keep the sound of growling stomachs from drowning out the moment you find out it was the librarian the whole time.
Finally, give some thought to backyard pest control. Light some citronella candles to keep airborne pests from getting too comfortable, and use some natural bug-repellent body spray to keep the creepy crawlers from finding a pant leg to climb.