Everything You Need to Host an Outdoor Movie Party

Planning a movie night under the stars? Shop our full list of essentials, which are perfect for alfresco entertaining.

Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money off these affiliate links. Learn more.
October 26, 2020

Fall is almost here, and we think that's a pretty good excuse to throw a cozy, outdoor movie night in the backyard. Get started by watching our quick video below on how to DIY your own silver screen, then check out our list of items that will earn your intimate soirée a standing ovation.

DIY Outdoor Movie Theater
Loading Video...

Amp Up the Atmosphere

It's all about the ambiance, right? Generate some serious buzz before guests even enter the backyard with this mini marquee sign. You can customize the front with three lines of text and use it to welcome everyone to your cozy event.

$149.99 $130
Save $20

Setting up your own big screen is easier than ever with this pocket-sized projector. The powerful LED lamp within delivers images as large as 50 inches, while the built-in 3.5mm audio port lets you connect the projector to wired speaker systems. All you have to do is project the film onto a flat surface, like the side of your garage or a sheet hung from a clothing line.

$219.99 $200
9% Off!

If you really want to go big, surprise your friends and family with this impressive, 14-foot inflatable screen. It's made of durable, weather-resistant 210D Oxford cloth and inflates in minutes with the help of a quiet pump fan included in the box.

$39.20 - $49

Make your movie night under the stars even more enchanting with a set of simple string lights. Each garland is crafted from stainless steel and wire, and comes with 10 globe-style bulbs, which will cast a warm and welcoming glow across your backyard.

$83.99

Next up? Seating. Create your own theater-style layout with a few folding lawn chairs spaced 6 feet apart. Couples and families can cuddle up on a two-person seater like this or stretch out on a blanket in the grass.

Cozy Up

Chilly nights are even better with a couple of space heaters. Send everyone to their seats with a cozy, outdoor throw (more on that below) and then switch on these stainless steel propane patio heaters. The 48000 BTU-burners will ward off any cool breezes and ensure that your space is at a comfortable temperature.

As if you needed another excuse to break out the cozy throw blankets. Snag one (or several) of these traditional Baja blankets. They're made from quality cotton, available in blue, pink, white and gray, and can be used as an extra layer on a lawn chair or to claim a spot on the grass.

Concession Stand Essentials

This type of event definitely calls for steaming cups of hot chocolate or cider. Let your guests help themselves by setting this 3-Liter Beverage Server on a table in the back along with a bottle of hand sanitizer. The server's double-wall insulation will keep the drink within piping hot until well after the movie's over.

$4.49

Okay, how cute are these cups? Complete your self-serve concession stand with a stack or two of these disposable containers, which come with a secure-fit lid and double-walled insulation. If you plan to set them out before the event, be sure to wash your hands before putting lids on them.

It's not a bad idea to have some bottled water on hand, either. Use this freestanding cooler to keep drinks ice-cold, and always encourage your guests to wash or sanitize their hands before reaching for one. You'll love how the cooler's compact silhouette takes up very little space and how it folds up for easy storage.

Now this is what we call "The Red-Carpet Treatment." Give everyone an easy way to transport their popcorn, candy and drinks across the yard with these individual snack trays. Each one includes a cup holder, a slot for popcorn and a space for boxes or bags of candy, plus a star-studded design that's perfect for the event.

$7.99

Personal bags of popcorn? Yes, please! Let your guests choose between cheddar and original by leaving out this SkinnyPop Multipack. The box comes with 14 individual bags, and the snack is dairy-free, peanut-free, tree nut-free and preservative-free, so everyone can enjoy it.

Next Up

Everything You Need to Create a Cozy Backyard This Fall

You don't have to head indoors as the temperatures drop. Keep your outdoor space warm and cozy with these essentials, and enjoy watching the leaves change colors.

56 Gorgeous Autumnal Accents to Set the Perfect Fall Table

Infuse your tablescape with the look and feel of autumn. Beautiful tablecloths, pretty dishes and glasses, eye-catching napkin rings and a showstopping centerpiece all combine for a fall-worthy table.

15 Entertaining Essentials You Need for Fall

From harvest dinners and Halloween parties to Thanksgiving feasts, these tabletop essentials will make fall entertaining a breeze.

16 Cute Outdoor Doormats to Welcome Fall

From punny messages to colorful designs, refresh your front door with one of these outdoor mats perfect for ushering in cooler temps and cozier vibes.

6 Best Leaf Blowers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The best leaf blower for you depends on how many trees you have, and how much tool maintenance you’re willing to do.

Our 12 Favorite Outdoor Blankets for Fall

Autumn evenings around the fire pit just got cozier.

The Best Firewood Storage Ideas

Bring the heat with these stylish log holders, totes and stands.

18 Tailgating Essentials to Score for Football Season

These tailgating must-haves are sure to make game day even more fun and stress-free.

The Best DIY Fall Craft Kits to Try This Season

Put down your phone, pick up your paintbrushes and celebrate the season ahead with these fun fall craft kits on Etsy.

12 Organization Essentials to Transition Your Closet From Summer to Fall

Get your wardrobe ready for chunky sweaters, cozy coats and knee-high boots with these closet storage and organization finds we love.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.