How to Create a Fun-Filled Family Backyard Movie Night

Make family movie night a night to remember. Set up a DIY projector screen, serve some kid favorites, and cozy up for a movie under the stars.

set up and ready for family backyard movie night
Photo: Rebekah Molloy

Easy Seating

kids sitting on pillows and blankets for backyard movie night
Rebekah Molloy

Arrange a few lawn chairs at the back of the seating area, then set out blankets, poufs, floor cushions, and pillows for portable seating and extra coziness.

DIY Screen

DIY screen for backyard movie night
Rebekah Molloy

We made this screen from PVC pipes and a drop cloth. You could also secure a white sheet or tablecloth to a fence or clothesline, or use a white wall.

Self-Serve

Keep the menu simple with hot dogs, finger foods, and bottled beverages. Add chips, fruit, cut-up veggies, and freshly popped popcorn.

mom and kids helping themselves to snacks in the backyard
Rebekah Molloy

Hot Dogs, Your Way

hot dogs and toppings in buns
Rebekah Molloy

Grill hot dogs, uncovered and turning occasionally, over medium heat until heated through, 3 to 7 minutes. Serve in buns your favorite toppers — such as mustard, pickle relish, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, chopped onions, ketchup, or cheese.

Float Wagon

ice cream and root beer in a galvanized tub set into a red wagon
Rebekah Molloy

Pack a galvanized bucket with ice. Nestle in ice cream, cold root beer (and boozy root beer for the grown-ups!), and frosty glasses. Tuck it all in a wagon for a root beer float bar cart.

Lights, Camera, Action!

When the sun goes down, it's showtime! Stream a movie (or your latest series fave) from your phone or laptop to a digital projector.

This article originally appeared in the August/September 2020 issue of Allrecipes Magazine.

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