All families are unique. We may be big or small, single parents, traditional or nontraditional families, but one thing most families have in common is the desire to spend time doing fun things together. One of our favorite traditions each summer is the outdoor family movie night. We start by bringing a sheet outdoors and hanging it on a tree. This makes our “big screen.” We own a projector so we hook up the computer to the projector and stream a Netflix movie. Spread some blankets around for the kids and some chairs for the grownups and we’re all set. Want to elevate your classic movie night to the next level? Here’s some ideas the kids will be talking about for years to come, especially if you allow them to invite their friends.
1. Make a DIY Popcorn Bar. Make or purchase different types of popcorn, like cheese, caramel and regular butter flavor. Add “mix ins” like candy and nuts, along with toppings; grated cheese for savory popcorn, caramel or chocolate bits for sweet popcorn. Set up a bar on a table outside with lots of bowls and allow everyone to create their own bowl of popcorn. Bonus: the kids have a lot of fun helping set it up so I don’t have to do as much work.
2. Have a “Retro” movie night. Find a classic movie, purchase some retro candies and retro sodas. Allow the sodas to cool in a metal barrel filled with ice and add the retro candies in classic containers, like metal colanders. If you want the complete experience, grill some burgers to serve before the movie.
3. Make a Milkshake And Ice Cream Bar. I do this by bringing out a carton of ice cream, lots of candy & toppings for shake or sundae creation, and set out a blender, along with bowls and other goodies. I’ve noticed some of my neighbors pop in for this one too!
Love these ideas. We have a large barn on our acres and in the summer sometimes we screen movies outside with our homemade projector. Its pretty fun.
So, so, sooo much fun! I love family movie night at home but I really like the idea of turning it into more of a “movie theater” experience with all the yummy drinks and snacks!
We have a Family Friday Night, ever week, now that Summer is here, well sort of! I will have to test this out on our end of School year time for a fun Friday Night addition to our normal family Friday night! Love the ideas!
I love this idea so much! Can’t wait for the kids to get old enough to enjoy this!
Great ideas! I love the milkshake bar and popcorn. I will so have to do these. My kids would seriously think it’s the best ever!
I don’t blame your neighbors for popping in. I’d want to pop in if I were your neighbor too. 🙂
I love the retro movie night. My kids actually love 80’s movies….because their crazy mom makes them watch them all the time 😉