The Menu
Pop-able Snacks
Keep bowls of snacks near the seating so guests can munch as they watch.
A Little Protein
Avoid a sugar high scene by balancing sweets with something a little more substantial.
Finger Food
With guests likely eating while lounging, food that can be eaten without utensils works best.
Drinks
Whip up large batches of cocktails so guests can pour as the mood strikes them.
Party Tips
Choose Your Movie Night Adventure
- Take it outside. Want some fresh air? Set up an outdoor theater! It can be as easy as renting a projector, hanging a white bed sheet on the side of your house, and arranging blankets or chairs on the lawn. Or get a little fancier and rent a projector and screen, along with cushy outdoor furniture. Showtime: sundown.
- Dinner and a movie. Feeling like something a little more formal? Choose a movie that revolves around food, then plan a sit-down dinner with a matching theme (e.g. and Italian feast for Big Night, a Greek extravaganza for My Big Fat Greek Wedding, or a pizza spread for Mystic Pizza).
- Double feature. Really make a night of it by choosing two movies that have a common theme: "Great Movie, Even Better Sequel," "80's John Cusack vs. 90's John Cusack," "Laugh 'Til You Cry," "Cry Like a Baby," "Chick Flick Faves" etc.--you get the idea.
The Set-Up
- Concession stand. Set up a table with classic movie treats: licorice, Jujubes®, Junior Mints®, and of course popcorn. (Pop up several batches beforehand, or rent a large popcorn popper like the ones you see at the theater, then let guests help themselves.)
Purchase fun containers at a paper supply store for guests to load goodies into (preferably something that can be closed up so guests can take extra sweets home). Also, keep an assortment of chilled soda, juices, and water.
- General admission. (If viewing indoors.) Pack as many comfy chairs into your "screening room" as you can, short of making the journey to each impossible. Also, throw a bunch of pillows and blankets on the floor to make overflow viewers comfortable.
- Lights out. If your curtains aren't cutting it, tape pieces of black poster board to windows for the full movie theater effect. Put a few nightlights around the room so no one trips, though--you don't want any guests to have a truly "lights out" experience.