It doesn’t take much to entertain us these days, but this was SO MUCH FUN. And any gathering that isn’t on Zoom is bound to be a winner! We just hosted a super simple outdoor movie night that was fun for both kids and adults, so I thought I’d share my tips. Spoiler alert: EASIEST PARTY EVER. You don’t even have to clean the house.
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Rent, Borrow or Buy Equipment
I purchased an inexpensive screen, but we ended up using the side of our house in place of a screen. Never thought of this when we painted the house, but what a bonus!
We borrowed the projector, used speakers similar to these and connected through Bluetooth. Here’s an affordable package with good reviews for a projector and screen if you want to invest in equipment. You could also check locally– some businesses and libraries will rent the equipment, or you could borrow from a friend.
Plan Your Party + Watch the Weather
Given the current environment, we kept the group small and socially-distanced. Everyone wore masks, and we had a great time. With a weather-dependent event, you may want to have a rain date, or pick a nice evening. Either way, don’t forget to consider and watch the weather.
Tell Your Guests What You’ll Provide + What to Bring
We asked our guests bring their own lawn chairs, and any special snack or beverage. We had a cooler nearby with kid and adult beverages. Ordering pizza or takeout would be another easy option.
Select a Location + Set Up
We were originally going to have the screen across our front porch, but realized what a great spot we have right in the driveway. And, this location provided plenty of room for guests to spread out. We hung string lights from the house to the basketball goal. Then, we used a makeshift table for the projector, set up the cooler and a few yard games if friends arrived before dark.
Make it Festive (or not)
Everything feels hard these days– why not make it fun?! Since we’re close to Halloween, we decided to go with a Halloween theme. The kids watched the Addam’s Family and I made festive treat bags for the kids (think dollar store goodies and snacks and candy). I also included glow-in-the-dark Silly String and glow bracelets.
In addition to our string lights, we hung orange tissue pom poms (also dollar store) and repurposed our lemonade stand as a concession stand. You can keep it simple or get creative. Just focus on keeping it fun and safe! We kept out hand sanitizer and packaged things individually.
I made and decorated sugar cookies for takeaway bags and individually packed those as well.
If you had a chilly evening you could set up a hot cocoa bar, or make s’mores.
Enjoy the Party!
The big-screen, friends and fresh air– what could be better?! I used to freak out over party prep, but this is honestly so simple. Just enjoy your guests and have a laid back evening. The best part– besides talking to other adults without having to worry if you’re on mute– was seeing the kids enjoy each other and play safely.
How are you staying connected with friends? If you have other ideas for socially-distanced gatherings, please share in the comments. We’d love to hear from you if you decide to host an outdoor movie party– share your tips!
PS: It also works for date night. #partyoftwo
Take good care, friends!
So much fun! Thanks for being the hostess with the mostess and getting us out of the house safely!
I’m so glad you guys had fun, Chrissy! We really enjoyed the time with everyone. The kids running around and playing made me so happy!