Creating Your Own Outdoor Theater

by Blue Crew

Bring the Movie Experience Home

Looking for some fun without a crowd? Bring the experience of being at the movies home with you by creating an outdoor movie theater! Skip the lines, get the best seats, and best of all – have your favorite snacks! Here are our tips for helping you make this dream a reality.

The Scene, Screen & Projector

To set the scene, you need to determine which screen and projector will work best for your particular situation. One thing to consider is the location of electrical outlets and the space you will have. Depending on how far your screen will be from the projector, you will want to keep this space in mind when choosing an appropriate screen size and a projector that will project the adequate distance.

To find the optimum distance for your space, you will need to measure the size of your screen diagonally and divide that size by 0.84. For example, a 100-inch projector screen requires an optimal viewing distance of 119 inches or 3 meters from the screen. Additionally, the size of the space will determine the appropriate throw distance. Common throw distances are Long Throw, Short Throw, and Ultra-Short Throw. Larger spaces will allow for a greater throw distance.

When choosing a projector, you will also want to consider the types of content you may be projecting. For instance, if you plan to stream content, you will want to choose a projector with smart features or one that allows you to connect a smart TV device like Chromecast. If you’re into sports, make sure the projector can support apps like ESPN. For gaming, consider the potential for input lag. Lastly, decide whether you prefer standard or high-definition projection.

Setting Up Your Theater Space

Creating the perfect outdoor theater isn’t just about the technical equipment; it’s also about setting up a comfortable and inviting space. Consider using outdoor-friendly furniture such as weather-resistant lounge chairs, bean bags, or even a blanket fort for kids. Adding string lights can create a magical ambiance as the sun sets.

Think about sound quality as well. Portable Bluetooth speakers can provide good sound, but for a more immersive experience, you might want to invest in a portable outdoor sound system. Ensure the speakers are placed at an optimal distance from your seating area to balance the audio.

Don’t Forget the Snacks!

As we hinted above, one of the reasons we love being able to have the movies at home is the freedom and affordable price tag of our own snacks. While you can obviously pick any snack to your heart’s desire, some snacks are better movie snacks than others. Our suggestion for the ideal snacks for your movie night? Choose something that doesn’t get your hands too messy, can be snacked on throughout the entire movie, and doesn’t have loud packaging. Since you can, it wouldn’t hurt to add a nutritious option also!

Consider setting up a small snack station with popcorn, candy, and a few healthy options like fruit or veggie sticks. A cooler with your favorite beverages is also a must. For a special treat, you could even set up a DIY s’mores station if you have a fire pit.

Final Touches

Before your movie starts, make sure everything is set up and functioning correctly. Test your projector and sound system, arrange the seating, and lay out the snacks. Have some cozy blankets or pillows on hand for when the evening gets cooler.

Creating an outdoor theater at home is a wonderful way to enjoy the magic of the movies with your friends and family in a personalized, comfortable setting. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can transform your backyard into a fantastic cinematic experience. Enjoy the show!