How to Make an Outdoor Cinema in Your Garden

In this age of extortionate prices and shoddy popcorn, there’s a lot to be said for movie nights at home. But if you don’t want to be limited to the front room TV, particularly on these warm summer nights, then maybe it’s time to bring the blockbusters to your backyard. It’s simpler than you might think. With our DIY tips, you’ll learn how to make an outdoor cinema in your garden and be watching the latest sci-fi under the stars in no time.

It all starts with the projector

Depending on your budget, the sky’s the limit for the quality of projector you can invest in. But if 3D or 4K is a stretch too far, then there are plenty of bargains you can pick up second hand. You could even try a cheap cardboard and plastic lens set up to project from your smartphone! Just make sure you house all your equipment under cover and off the ground in case it gets damp.

The big screen

When it comes to making your cinema screen, get creative! Sheets, blackout blinds or a painted wall all work well. We’ve even seen one of our customers using a shade sail as a cinema screen, which is brilliantly innovative. Go for the waterproof polyester ones which don’t have any holes.

Sail Shade Cinema Screen

Get comfortable

You’ll need to wait till it’s dark to get the best projection outside. But as the night draws in, it can often get a little nippy outside. Bean bags can actually be more comfortable than camping or deck chairs, as you sink right in and escape the breeze. Either way be sure to have a blanket or two on hand to wrap up with for a cozy night. An outdoor heater might not go amiss too!

Bring out the snacks

One of the best things about making your own private cinema is being able to bring in any food or drinks you like. Kick off your horror night with a killer barbecue, enjoy a fizzy romcom with a side of champagne, or chill out with Frozen and a bucket of ice cream. Check out our Bruce the Bull Cooler for an exceptionally classy way to keep your drinks on ice.

Lights, camera, action!

Ready to make your next movie night an outdoor extravaganza? Invite the neighbours round, roll out the red carpet (or some garden track?) and light up your screen with the magic of motion pictures.

George at PrimroseGeorge works in the Primrose marketing team. As a lover of all things filmic, he also gets involved with our TV ads and web videos.

George’s idea of the perfect time in the garden is a long afternoon sitting in the shade with a good book. A cool breeze, peace and quiet… But of course, he’s usually disturbed by his energetic wire fox terrier, Poppy!

He writes about his misadventures in repotting plants and new discoveries about cat repellers.

See all of George’s posts.