Roll the Cameras

Host An Outdoor Movie

Autumn is in the air and this is the first week I've really felt the change.  Seems like the trees have turned over night - lighting up the sky with brilliant shades of orange, yellow and red.  Weather is getting crisper and it could not be a better time to roll the cameras for a backyard movie!  Here are five tips to host an outdoor movie during the pandemic.

KEEP IT SMALL:  Invite a handful of friends, neighbors, or family.  In my backyard, which is relatively small, four families are the max we can comfortably host.  Be sure to allow each family to create their own "island" to land before the movie starts. They can stake claim to that area for placing blankets, chairs, etc.

BYOB and BYOC:  Ask your guests to bring their own chairs and beverages.  While your southern roots may cringe at the thought that you aren’t providing the seating and drinks, your friends will thank you.  The pandemic made it more popular to bring your own anything, so you can rest assured

CREATE A SANITATION STATION:  Put together a small table with hand sanitizer and disposable masks for friends who feel more comfortable wearing PPE. 

PROVIDE SNACKS:  Smore's Cones are a great substitute for the real deal.  They can be prepared safely ahead of time and wrapped individually in foil.  Just place them in the fire pit to roast as the movie starts.  Another idea, make microwave popcorn and give a freshly popped bag to each family. This eliminates sharing germs. 

KEEP IT OUTSIDE:  Remind your guests the party will stay outside.  Dressing warmly is key to remaining comfortable.  If you have a fire pit, keep the flames roaring throughout the evening so everyone stays warm.

Enjoy your evening beneath the stars!