Essentials for Hosting the Ultimate Outdoor Movie Night

Your how-to guide for hosting a perfect screening under the stars.

After a long day hanging out on the lake or hitting the trails, there’s nothing better than curling up to a cozy night around the big screen with tasty snacks and cabin classics. This summer, take movie night to the next level with an al fresco screening of your cabin crew’s favorite flicks. Here’s how to achieve the perfect setup.

_{*All products featured are selected by our editors. When you make a purchase through a qualifying link, we may earn a commission via affiliate programs with Amazon.com and other retailers.}

The Necessities

Projector

Of course, the first essential you’ll need is the projector! The price tag can vary wildly from the more budget-friendly VANKYO LEISURE 3 Mini Projector, which boasts more than 8,000 five-star reviews, to the pricy but powerful ViewSonic PX747-4K Home Theater Projector.

Screen

Some projectors come with a screen, but you may need to purchase one separately. Sizes vary, so make sure to grab one that’s compatible with your projector’s capabilities. For a seriously cinematic experience you could go with a 14-foot inflatable screen. Or keep it simple with a portable screen/stand combo.

(P.s.! A little creativity can turn a white sheet into a quick-and-easy DIY screen.)

All Kinds of Cords

Don’t forget the nuts and bolts of your setup! You’ll likely need a few extension cords, and depending on what device you’ll be playing the actual movie from (streaming on a laptop, phone, or using a dvd) you may need a HDMI cable and/or adapter.

The Fun Stuff

Blankets and Rugs

Lay out big beach towels or picnic blankets for everyone to spread out on. Go classic with a checkered picnic blanket or add some frills with a striped round beach blanket.

The Perfect Place to Lounge

An inflatable lounger air sofa is easy equally easy to store and inflate. No pump required, simply wave through the air to fill. Shop here: Amazon.com

Pillows

These pillows are outdoor-friendly and come with the insert. Prop them up on your cabin's porch until the next movie night. Shop here: Wayfair.com

Bucket of Beverages

Get creative with your cooler, and stash bottles and cans in a galvanized metal planter filled with ice.

Popcorn Maker

What's a movie night without popcorn? This nostalgic popcorn maker makes up to 10 cups of popcorn per batch--enough to keep the snacks going all night long!

Outdoor-Friendly Cups

Prevent spills and breaks with these lidded wine tumblers and on-theme shatterproof bear glasses .

Citronella Candles

Keep bugs at bay all through the evening with citronella candles that boast the added benefit of boosting the outdoor ambiance. Shop it here: Wayfair.com