There’s something magical about watching a great film under the open sky using an outdoor projector and projector screen. The air feels fresher, the stars add their own special twinkle, and the whole experience feels more memorable than sitting indoors on the couch. A backyard movie night transforms an ordinary evening into something extraordinary, perfect for family gatherings, summer parties, or a romantic date night right at home.
With the right backyard movie setup, you can bring the big-screen experience to your own backyard, whether the patio or the driveway. Let’s break down what you need for a fun outdoor movie night and how to put it all together for the best experience.
What you’ll need for the best backyard movie night setup
Before you can start handing out popcorn, you’ll need to gather a few essentials. Don’t worry, you can build your setup step-by-step, and many of these items are easy to store for future movie nights.
1. Projector: outdoor brightness and portability matter most
The heart of any backyard movie setup is the projector. For outdoor viewing, brightness is key. Look for a model with at least 2,000 to 3,000 ANSI lumens so the picture remains sharp even if there’s a little ambient light. Portability is also a plus, especially if you’ll be moving it between indoor and outdoor use. Many newer projectors are compact, light, and even offer wireless connectivity. You’ll also find models with memory card or flash memory drive slots to play back stored content. Watching sports or action films? Consider a projector with higher refresh rates for smoother motion.
Check out our projector buying guide for everything you need to know before choosing.
2. Screen options: inflatable, pop-up, or DIY
A great projector deserves a good screen. Sure, you could project onto the side of your garage or even a plain, white sheet. But the right screen will give you a crisper, more immersive image.
Inflatable projector screens
These are a favourite for large gatherings. They’re huge, quick to inflate, and bring a theatre-like vibe to the yard. Most come with stakes and ropes for stability, and many require a small electric blower to keep them inflated during the movie. A couple of things to keep in mind:
- The fan can make some noise, so set it up a few metres away from seating if possible.
- You’ll need access to a power outlet or a portable power source.
Pop-up or portable screens
If you’re looking for something easier to set up and store, pop-up screens are a great choice. They’re lightweight, often mounted on a tripod or frame, and can be assembled in minutes. Many use wrinkle-resistant fabric, which helps keep the picture looking crisp. They’re also easy to take on camping trips, to the cottage, or even to a friend’s backyard for movie night on the go.
DIY white sheet or wall setup
For the budget-conscious, nothing beats a clean white bedsheet and a bit of creativity. Secure it tightly to a flat surface (a fence, garage wall, or between two trees) to avoid wrinkles that can distort the image. If you have light bleed from nearby street lamps or houses, hang a dark fabric, like a blackout curtain, behind it for better contrast. This trick works best for small groups and casual gatherings.
3. Audio speakers: external vs built-in
Some projectors have built-in speakers, but they often can’t compete with the open-air environment of a backyard. External speakers, wired or Bluetooth, will give you much better sound quality. Bluetooth speakers are convenient and easy to pair. But for the best audio sync, especially with action-packed films, a wired connection can be more reliable. If you’re going wireless, look for low-latency Bluetooth models to keep lip-sync issues at bay.
Consider the ones with long battery life if there isn’t a power outlet nearby. For a more immersive set-up, get two speakers to serve as left and right channels.
4. Power and cables
Unless your projector is battery-powered, you’ll need an extension cord or outdoor-rated power bar among the various outdoor entertainment accessories to add to your set-up. Surge protection is a good idea to keep your equipment safe from power fluctuations. If your seating area is far from your home’s outlets, consider a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord or a portable power station. Keep cords tucked away or taped down to avoid tripping hazards.
5. Seating and comfort
The best outdoor movie nights are the ones where everyone feels comfortable. Consider folding chairs, loungers, or picnic blankets layered with cushions. For a cozy touch, add throws or sleeping bags.
Summer evenings in Canada can be buggy, so keep citronella candles, bug spray, or a portable bug zapper handy. If you’re in an area prone to dew or cool nights, bring out waterproof blankets or mats to keep everyone dry and warm.
Choosing the best outdoor projector
How do you set up a backyard movie night with the clearest, brightest picture? Here’s what to look for in a projector and screen:
- Brightness (lumens): For evening viewing, 2,000 to 3,000 ANSI lumens will give you a bright, visible picture even if there’s a little ambient light from street lamps or porch lights. If you plan to start the movie before sunset, higher brightness is important to prevent the image from looking washed out.
- Resolution: 1080p is the sweet spot for most setups. It delivers crisp detail without going over budget. If you’re a home theatre enthusiast or you want your outdoor screen to rival your indoor TV, a 4K model will make colours and textures stand out in a way that’s perfect for blockbuster films and nature documentaries.
- Portability: Small projectors are easier to carry, store, and set up, especially if you plan to use your projector in more than one location, like the cottage or a friend’s backyard. It also means less effort when it’s time to pack everything away at the end of the night.
- Smart features: Some projectors come with built-in streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, or Disney+. This can save you from running extra cables to a laptop or media player, making setup quicker and less cluttered.
You don’t have to splurge on the most expensive model to have a great time. Just choose the best projector for outdoor movie night that fits your space, audience size, and budget.
How to set up your backyard movie theatre
Once you have your gear, it’s time to put it all together. Here’s how to set up a backyard movie theatre so the night goes smoothly.
Select the best location
Pick a flat, open area with minimal ambient light, away from street lamps, porch lights, or large windows. Level ground will help keep your chairs and screen stable. Ensure there’s access to a power source for your projector and speakers. The backyard is an ideal spot but for a neighbourhood movie night, you might want to use your driveway and invite others.
Position the projector for the best viewing distance
Most projectors have a recommended throw distance (the space between the projector and screen) for the best image size and clarity. Check your projector’s manual, and set it up at that distance. Use the keystone correction or lens shift features to square the image on the screen. Make sure to choose a projector with the right dimensions as well.
Set up the projector screen
Whether inflatable, pop-up, or DIY, make sure the screen is secure and taut. For windy nights, add extra anchoring with sandbags or guy lines. If you’re using a sheet, pull it as tight as possible to prevent flapping or rippling during the movie.
Connect your projector with external speakers
Pair your projector with external speakers via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (if it reliably reaches outdoors) or cable. Test the sound at movie-watching volume to make sure it carries well to your seating area.
Test and adjust projector setting when needed
Before your guests arrive, run a quick test with a scene from the movie. Adjust the focus, brightness, and audio sync. It’s easier to make tweaks before everyone settles in with their snacks.
Tips for a memorable outdoor movie night
A little extra planning goes a long way in making your backyard movie night unforgettable.
- Check the weather: Summer storms can sneak up on you. Have a backup plan like a canopy or tarp, or be ready to move the viewing indoors.
- Create a fun and safe environment: String up some fairy lights, set out lanterns, or place solar lights along walkways for safety and charm.
- Snacks are essential: Popcorn stations, candy bowls, and thermoses of hot chocolate or plastic cups with slushies or soda are crowd-pleasers.
- Fight the bugs: Citronella candles, bug zappers, or yellow “bug lights” can help keep mosquitoes at bay.
- Stay cozy: Even summer nights can get chilly in parts of Canada, so stock up on blankets and pillows.
Get ready for cinema under the stars
With the right projector, a suitable screen, and a few comfort-focused extras, you can create an outdoor theatre that’s perfect for summer evenings, special celebrations, or casual hangouts with friends. Match your gear to your space, audience, and budget, whether that means a top-of-the-line 4K projector with a pop-up screen or a portable 1080P model with a simple sheet-and-speaker combo. Once you’ve experienced the magic of an outdoor film under the stars, you’ll want to make it a regular tradition.
Get ready to press play on a movie night that’s just steps from your back door. And if you’re curious about projectors, projector screens, and outdoor entertainment accessories to make your next event shine, check out our wide selection of home theatre products at Best Buy Canada.
