Hosting an Intergenerational Outdoor Movie Night

Did someone say movie night? If you are looking for a fun way for several generations of your family to spend time together, consider an outdoor movie night. It’s easy to organize and won’t cost a lot of money, even if you invite a big crowd. Hosting your own outdoor movie night doesn’t have to be overly complicated, either. In fact, other than making sure you have the right equipment, all you’ll need to do is pick a few intergenerational movies and purchase some tasty snacks and drinks.

Equipment for an Outdoor Movie Night

First, you will need to rent or invest in a movie projector and possibly speakers. You might be able to find a gently used set that’s relatively inexpensive on Facebook Marketplace or eBay. If you need advice before making a purchase, Good Housekeeping’s tech pros tested and rated movie projectors at various price points.

If you don’t have the budget for an outdoor movie screen, or a place to store it, it’s easy to improvise. A simple white sheet hung on the side of the house or between two patio torches can act as a screen. Ask guests to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets.

Movie Titles That Span the Generations

While finding a movie that appeals to a variety of ages might seem difficult, it really isn’t at all. This is especially true if you are willing to go back in time to include classic titles in your family gathering. This list of suggestions might help you decide on a few to show:

• Freaky Friday: Jamie Lee Curtis and a young Lindsay Lohan star as a mother-daughter duo who accidentally switch bodies. Rated PG.
• Uncharted: This title, starring Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg, is something of a modern treasure hunt—a combination of action and fun. Rated PG-13.
• The Greatest Showman: If your kids are middle school age or older, this might be a fun addition to movie night. It’s a musical with Hugh Jackman starring as circus maestro P.T. Barnum. Rated PG.
• Mrs. Doubtfire: The late Robin Williams made this movie a forever favorite for many people. You can introduce a new generation of your family to the fun of seeing Williams play a dad dressed up as a nanny whom his ex-wife unknowingly hires to care for their kids. Rated PG-13.
• Daddy Day Care: Eddie Murphy stars in this hilarious classic. A stay-at-home dad, Murphy starts his own home day care to make a little money. Rated PG.

Outdoor Movie Night Snack Ideas

Finally, just like a trip to an indoor movie theater wouldn’t be complete without snacks, neither will your family gathering. You could keep it simple by just having on hand bottled water, sodas, boxes of candy, and fruit. Or you could take it up a notch by renting or borrowing a theater-style popcorn maker to serve up everyone’s favorite movie treat. Another idea is to ask everyone to pitch in and bring something. It might be an appetizer, their favorite adult beverage, or homemade cookies.

Remember, the idea is to create an opportunity for several generations of your family to spend time making memories together. Take lots of pictures to document the occasion and keep the focus on having fun!

Mobile Monitoring Units Give Peace of Mind

Whether you are a senior who likes to travel alone or a college student looking for a little extra peace of mind when you are running in the morning, investing in a mobile monitoring unit might be a safety solution to consider. If you experience an emergency of any kind, a quick press of a button on the Life Protect 24/7 mobile monitoring unit can connect you with help. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!