Texas Living

Hosting a Dive-In Movie Night

By Kristy Alpert 6.12.17

Shake things up at your next summertime party by adding the nostalgia of a drive-in movie to the joy of floating in a pool. You’re just a bed sheet and movie projector away from dive-in movie night in your own backyard. Here’s how to make it happen. 

Silver Screen

You can rent an inflatable movie screen or buy one, but don’t be afraid to simply make it yourself. All you need is a plain white bed sheet — or even just a white wall —and a movie projector. Select a spot in your backyard that’s easily visible from your ideal watching zones and hang your white sheet, making sure the edges are pulled tightly so there are no wrinkles in the screen. You can try using clothespins to clip the corners to something like your gutters or fence, or knot the ends of the sheet and tie them with twine to backyard items like swing sets or trees. Just test your equipment before guests arrive to make sure the sound and image are clear.

And, Scene

Get into the theme with your outdoor cinema by setting up a snack bar. You can serve movie theater candies, a popcorn stand, and hot dogs. Don’t forget to stock your pool with plenty of pool floats (think inflatable doughnuts, flamingos, popsicles, and more), and maybe even some floating lights to create a little ambiance for your floating theater.

Movie Madness

The movie you choose can help direct the night’s theme. For instance, you could plan a treasure hunt for kids before settling in to watch Pirates of the Caribbean, or serve up mason jar “aquariums” of Swedish Fish floating in blue Jell-O for Finding Dory. Other good options include Splash and The Little Mermaid (just don’t serve any flounder!).

Stunt Double

Tired kiddos around water can be a dangerous recipe, so make sure no one’s pulling any crazy stunts — go over your pool safety guidelines with everyone before the fun begins. 

Get your pool sparkling clean and invite your friends over! It will be a night to remember.

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