Backyard Movie Night – The Lorax

Going to the theater is fun, but there are so many advantages to showing the movie right in your back yard.

Make a cute sign to show guests what movie you will be showing.  This frame started out as an old crib that I found in the alley.  I had my hubby cut off the legs and remove all the old hardware.  I plan on eventually painting it with chalkboard paint.  You can save time by using coloring page images as your sign graphic.  The bonus of using coloring pages is they usually free and fit most themes.

When choosing a movie, there are a few things to think about.  Make sure that you consider your audience.  We have young kids, so the movies that we show all need to be family friendly.  We try to show movies that we have already previewed, or older classic movies.  Also think about how long the movie is and what time you will be starting the show.

It is fun to have a few props to set the mood for the movie.  Each of our guests were given one these adorable Lorax mustaches that a sweet friend made.  The kids loved them and they had fun wearing their Lorax mustaches during the movie.

Every movie needs snacks, especially popcorn.  We made simple popcorn bags by cutting the top off regular brown lunch bags.  We had a few spilled drinks.  Which was no big deal, but next time I will have a few low tables for the kids and maybe lidded drinks.  It is also helpful to have little lights over the snack table to help the guests find the food table without tripping.

If you don’t own a proper movie screen, don’t worry.  Our movie screen is simple, cheap and works great.  All we use is a large painters drop cloth found at the local home improvement store.  We use one the is off white and it works great.  I have also read that a cheap white plastic shower curtain works too.

We stopped the movies about half way through for a quick intermission.  This allowed the kiddos to go the restroom and refill their snack bags without missing any of the movie.  We kept it brief so the movie would not drag on to long.

The kids loved making Lorax mustache shadows during the credits.

It was a memorable night and the kids look forward to doing it again soon.  My kids came up with a cute list of why back yard movies are better than going to the theater:

• No tickets are needed.
• Enjoy being outside in the fresh air.
• Invite lots of friends.
• Not as crowded.
• Snuggle with your pillows and blankets.
• You can wear PJ’s if you want.
• The snacks are yummy (bonus of not paying movie theater prices).
• You don’t miss any of the movie if you want more snacks.
• You don’t have to leave home.

More cute ideas from around the web to make your Lorax party a hit – just click the caption under the photo for full instructions.

Cute Lorax beverage dispenser by Tonya Staab

A Dice Lorax Game by Smashed Peas and Carrots

Lorax Truffula Tree Craft by Babble

DIY Truffula Trees by Mrs. Lodge’s Library

Lorax drinks and amazing party by Hostess with the Mostess