Nothing can replicate the experience of heading out to the movie theater. But, like with so many communal experiences, we’ve had to adapt since the start of the pandemic, and there are plenty of ways to replicate a version of the theatrical experience in a safe, socially distant, or single household-only manner. The best option? Investing in a few key purchases to turn your backyard (or front yard, or patio, or any outdoor space) into a home theater. You’ll need a projector and a screen to start — which we’ve listed below, though you can check out a full list of options in our piece about the best projectors for your budget — plus a few more accessories (lights, blankets, a bluetooth- speaker option — here’s a bigger list of those, too) that will make your outdoor movie viewing as comfortable and cozy as possible. Read on for our selections.
GRC Video Projector
This affordable projector option comes with a native 1280x720p resolution with a high brightness and contrast ratio. It includes HDMI/USB/TF/AV/VGA interfaces for use with laptops, Blu-ray and DVD players, and other media (though not smartphones). It comes with projector, remote control, HDMI cable, AV cable, power cable, and user manual.
Mdbebbron 120 inch Projection Screen
This lightweight polyester 120″ screen is foldable for easy storage, and can be fastened easily with hooks, ropes, brackets, nails, or even double sided tape. It’s basic, sure, but way better than tacking a sheet to the wall.
KHOMO GEAR Jumbo 20 Feet Inflatable Outdoor and Indoor Theater Projector Screen
Okay, last screen option but we couldn’t resist — if you REALLY want to commit (and also have a pretty big yard), then you’ll want to try this 13′ x 8′ inflatable screen that accommodates both front and rear projection. It takes less than five minutes to set up with the included air pump, and can deflate in minutes to pack inside the included storage bag.
Portable Soundbar for TV/PC
This portable soundbar is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, and it’s a nice alternative to the typical Bluetooth speakers. Its multiple wireless and wired connections means you can easily connect it to your projector via Bluetooth or audio cable. It’s lightweight, with a battery that lasts up to six hours at max volume. You’ll get the soundbar, remote, USB driver-free sound card, RCA cable, 3.5mm audio cable and user manual, plus an 18-month warranty and 24-hour customer support.
Legacy Heating 30″ Fire Pit, Outdoor Wood Burning Steel BBQ Fireplace Bowl
Now that the weather’s nice, don’t be shy about firing up the grill. This wood-burning fire pit comes in handy because it’s lightweight and easily transportable, and is made from a durable steel frame with black heat-resistant coating. It also comes with a spark screen and fire poker for safety.
Bedsure Fleece Blanket
Just in case it gets a little chilly, you can’t go wrong with more low-tech heating option. Cuddle up in this cozy microfiber fleece blanket. It’s machine-washable and dryer safe for easy cleaning.
Lampat 25Ft G40 Globe String Lights
To really set the scene, decorate your yard with these outdoor globe light. Each 25′ string comes with 25 clear G40 bulbs (or replace with your candelabra socket bulbs of choice), plus end-to-end connections so you can attach up to three together for larger areas. And if one bulb breaks or burns out, the rest will continue to work.
Christopher Knight Home Vivien Outdoor Water Resistant 6’x3′ Lounger Bean Bag
Next up? Seating. This rectangular bean bag is filled with small pieces of high-density polyurethane foam for plenty of support, and the removable cover is easy to take off and clean whenever you want.
Coleman Portable Camping Quad Chair
A more ergonomic option is this portable camping chair, which has a fully cushioned seat and back, and also comes with side pockets, mesh cooler, and a four-can cooler to make sure your drink stays cold.
West Bend Hot Oil Theater Style Popcorn Popper
You can’t get the full outdoor movie theater experience without a little popcorn. Bring the concession stand home with this 4QT popcorn machine which comes with a measuring cup, spoon, and serving scoop. For a more compact option, try this outdoor popcorn popper that goes directly on your grill. Of course, you’ll need popcorn kernels as well (which you can get here), and bags to fill up with buttery popcorn. If you’re throwing a 21 and over movie night and want a ready-made option, try this alcohol infused gourmet popcorn.
Grilled Personal Pizza Maker
Hungry for more than popcorn? This cast iron personal pizza maker lets you make a brick-oven-style pizza from home. Just add your toppings, place the pizza maker directly on the grill (or mini oven), and you’ll have a delicious homemade pizza in 10 minutes. Sign Up: Stay on top of the latest breaking film and TV news! Sign up for our Email Newsletters here.
