Ah, summer. There's something magical about this time of year that makes everything feel a bit more vibrant and alive. One of my absolute favorite summer activities is hosting an outdoor movie night with friends. There's nothing quite like setting up a big screen under the stars, sitting by a cozy fire, and enjoying some great films with the people you love.
First things first, setting up the screen is always a fun project. We usually use a large blow up screen that Tim sets up and a portable projector, which works perfectly for our backyard setup. As the sun starts to set, we gather around the fire pit, arranging our chairs and blankets in the perfect viewing spot. There's a special kind of excitement in the air as we watch the sky transform from a warm orange to a deep, starry night.
And of course, what's a movie night without some delicious food? We love mixing up some classics to make the evening even more special. One of our go-to dishes is clam chowder. There's something so comforting about a warm bowl of this creamy, savory soup as we settle in for the movie.
Please note: The white wine in this recipe can be substituted with vegetable oil, chicken stock, and white wine vinegar.
To add a bit of crunch and fun, we also make homemade cheese straws. These crispy, cheesy delights are always a hit and pair wonderfully with our chowder.
One of my favorite parts of these evenings is just lying back and looking at the stars during a movie break. There's something so peaceful about staring up at the vast sky, feeling connected to nature and to each other. It's a gentle reminder of the simple joys in life and the importance of making time for moments like these.
As the night goes on, our bellies full and our hearts warmed, I often find myself reflecting on the beauty of these gatherings. They're more than just a fun way to spend an evening; they're about creating memories with friends, sharing good food, and appreciating the little things that make life special.
What are your favorite movies to watch under the stars? Do you have any special recipes or traditions for your own outdoor movie nights? I'd love to hear your ideas and stories!
42 comments
Steel Magnolias or Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
Sleepless in Seattle plays well on a big screen and has plenty of sad, funny, tender, and exciting moments!
Secondhand Lions
The original Ghostbusters movie is one of my favorite summer “treats”!
Practical Magic!