Outdoor Movie Night Published in Prince William Living

This spring I am going crazy thinking of all the fun activities I want to do with my family. Warmer months are the perfect time for casual parties, afternoons with backyard water slides, water balloons and homemade popsicles.
When the weather starts to warm up, I always think of my family’s movie nights, which my family loves. Movie nights are even more fun when you bring them outdoors. My family only does this a few times a year since it takes a little extra effort, but the results and memories are worth it. On the day of movie night we prepare the yard and start setting up.
First, you need a projector. Prices for new top-of-the-line projectors can start well into the thousands of dollars. However, along with newer models, many electronics stores carry a range of cheaper, refurbished projectors, and you can find used models starting at around $200. There are also several websites that will rent a projector to you for less than $100. Or you may be able to borrow one from a friend.

Next, you will need a DVD player. Laptops or popular game consoles, such as Xbox or Wii, can serve this purpose, too. You will need A/V cables to hook your player to the projector just like you would with your television. Follow your projector’s instruction manual if you have any difficulties. You will also need sound since the projector will not provide that. If you don’t have stereo speakers, you may find them at yard sales or thrift stores.
Now onto the screen. You can show your movies on anything from a purchased or rented screen to a smooth outdoor wall. I use my photography backdrop stand with a thick white sheet. You could also secure the sheet along the fence or clothes lines.

Then, of course, atmosphere is vital. There are so many ways to create the perfect movie theater feel. I hang string lights for a soft glow. Candles and lanterns will do this as well. For seating, my family uses beanbag and lounge chairs, blankets and even tents. If you are feeling really ambitious, you can pull the couch or a futon outside like my dad used to do.
Another important component is food. No movie night is complete without snacks. Popcorn, candy and soda are requirements. I also like to get creative. “Buttered Popcorn Cupcakes” is one of our favorite outdoor movie treats.

Buttered Popcorn Cupcakes
I have created a special #pwliving version, which includes the “Yellow Butter Cake” recipe by Jason Shriner, The Aubergine Chef and Prince William Living’s “What’s Cooking” writer and monthly recipe contributor. (Look for his recipes at pwliving.com under “Food and Drink.”)
INGREDIENTS
About 8 egg yolks or 6 ounces (room temperature)
8 1⁄2 ounces milk
1/8 ounces vanilla extract
10 1⁄2 ounces all-purpose flour
10 1⁄2 ounces granulated sugar
19.5 grams (1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon) baking powder
Pinch of salt
6 ounces unsalted butter (room temperature)
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and place liners in cupcake pan.
- Combine the yolks, vanilla and 2 ounces of milk in a bowl and whisk lightly.
- Place all dry ingredients in a mixing bowl and combine on low speed.
- Add the butter and remaining milk. Mix on low speed until all ingredients are moistened.
- Increase to medium speed and beat for 11⁄2 minutes. Scrape down the sides.
- Gradually add the egg mixture in three batches, mixing for about 20 seconds and scraping between each addition.
- Fill cupcake liners halfway and bake for about 25 to 35 minutes until finished. Let cool before decorating.
Simple Buttercream Icing
This easy-to-make, egg-free frosting recipe has been in my family for generations. It’s not only great on cupcakes, but also for decorating cookies for holidays, birthdays and parties. To add coloring to the icing, use color paste.
INGREDIENTS
1⁄2 cup shortening
1⁄2 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons milk
DIRECTIONS
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, shortening and vanilla.
- Blend in the sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Beat in the milk, and continue mixing until light and fluffy.
- Keep icing covered until ready to decorate.
Marshmallow “Popcorn”
For cupcake topping, you can get creative with marshmallow “popcorn.” You will need regular-size marshmallows, yellow food coloring and a little powdered sugar.
First, color half of your batch of marshmallows yellow and let them dry.
Next, make a small cut in the middle of each marshmallow and then make three small cuts in their tops. Twist the marshmallows lightly at the middle. Then press the three “petal” shapes made from the three cuts lightly until they begin to fan out. Viola! Your marshmallows look like popcorn.
The more shapes you make, the better the “popcorn” will look. If the marshmallows get sticky while you are manipulating them, dust them lightly with powdered sugar. Be aware that the sugar will dull the yellow color of the marshmallows. So use it sparingly.
Click this image to download these custom Popcorn Cupcake Wrappers that I created exclusively for Prince William Living. Download, print on cardstock, cut along the lines and tape them together. Drop your cupcakes in after they have been decorates.
Wait! I forgot about the movie! Picking the perfect movie is key. Keep your audience in mind. Depending on the quality of the equipment you have, picking a family favorite may be better than choosing a new release as it could be hard to hear and the projector quality may not be up to movie theater standards. The Prince William Public Library System has a large selection of DVDs you can check out for free. Visit www.pwcgov.org/library.
The more shapes you make, the better the “popcorn” will look. If the marshmallows get sticky while you are manipulating them, dust them lightly with powdered sugar. Be aware that the sugar will dull the yellow color of the marshmallows. So use it sparingly.
Click this image to download these custom Popcorn Cupcake Wrappers that I created exclusively for Prince William Living. Download, print on cardstock, cut along the lines and tape them together. Drop your cupcakes in after they have been decorates.
Wait! I forgot about the movie! Picking the perfect movie is key. Keep your audience in mind. Depending on the quality of the equipment you have, picking a family favorite may be better than choosing a new release as it could be hard to hear and the projector quality may not be up to movie theater standards. The Prince William Public Library System has a large selection of DVDs you can check out for free. Visit www.pwcgov.org/library.
Related Posts
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Oh, what a fun idea! I love this. Maybe we'll give this a try this summer. :)
ReplyDeletegrt
ReplyDeleteMovies are the excellent stress busters that never let you fall prey to boredom. Watch Tv shows online free
ReplyDeleteThis is only the data I am discovering all over the place. A debt of gratitude is in order for your website, I simply subscribe your online journal. This is a decent blog.. fmovies
ReplyDeleteWe are particularly amped up for the option of Banyan shrubs, Ivy hedges and Rhododendron brambles which we feel will include some unique outline choices for arranging ventures.PPLoutdoors
ReplyDeleteIndeed, tents speak to only one of various bits of outdoor equipment that most devotees claim. outdoor equip
ReplyDeleteYou will also need sound since the projector will not provide that. If you don’t have stereo speakers, you may find them at yard sales or thrift stores.https://123moviestube.io/
ReplyDeleteI always love to watch movie at night. Thus, this might be my best outdoor projector.
ReplyDeleteGreatest Fence Service provider and the team are excellent to work with. The quality of their work is excellent. And they are great thoughtful individuals. They built a redwood fence in my cafe outdoor patio, and it arrived on the scene better then I could've ever expected. I would certainly rely on them again for any new tasks info.
ReplyDeleteYour blogs and its stuff magnetize me to return again n again.Accounting Firms in Toronto
ReplyDeleteShop for Outdoor Chaise Lounges in Patio Furniture. ... Product Image Mainstays Belden Park Outdoor Chaise Lounge with Cushion. blue chaise lounge outdoor
ReplyDeleteOn the off chance that you will be for the most part auto camping, don't falter to get a tent implied for auto camping! Despite the fact that it will be heavier, it will be sturdier, significantly more affordable and have a bigger number of extravagances than a boondocks tent.Used travel trailers in Mo
ReplyDeleteThe caliber of information that you're offering is merely wonderful.moonpig offer code
ReplyDeleteWhen looking for an outdoor sauna, it is imperative to ensure the controls offer crucial wellbeing highlights. Auto-off is a vital control that ought to be looked for in the wake of amid the sauna determination process.outdoor sauna
ReplyDeleteIt’s a classic great for me to go to this blog site, it offers helpful suggestions Mark Curry payday loans
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI was surfing the Internet for information and came across your blog. I am impressed by the information you have on this blog. It shows how well you understand this subject. thesurvivallife.com/
ReplyDeleteInteresting topic for a blog. I have been searching the Internet for fun and came upon your website. Fabulous post. Thanks a ton for sharing your knowledge! It is great to see that some people still put in an effort into managing their websites. I'll be sure to check back again real soon. custom pool builder horseshoe bay
ReplyDeleteAs a photography lover you probably are always in search of Photography museums. The Marubi Museum of Photography in Shkodra Albania will leave you speechless of the beautiful photographs and the story behind them. Albania Photography
ReplyDeleteThe bigger the room the more alternatives might turn into your home film screen and the more companions can go along with you for a film. outdoor cinema hire
ReplyDeleteSure, atmosphere is vital. Nice post! adventurefootstep.com
ReplyDeleteSome of the four-season camping tents contain two walls, this helps to keep you warmer in colder climates. The dome Tents are fast becoming a very popular tent to use in most places and conditions.toy hauler travel trailer
ReplyDeleteThanks for the blog loaded with so many information. Stopping by your blog helped me to get what I was looking for. Miami Outdoor Lighting
ReplyDeleteGreat post, and great website. Thanks for the information! solar security light
ReplyDeleteI learn some new stuff from it too, thanks for sharing your information. home theater projector
ReplyDeletevery interesting post.this is my first time visit here.i found so many interesting stuff in your blog especially its discussion..thanks for the post! https://myblogu.com/profile/lancekr
ReplyDeleteIf more people that write articles involved themselves with writing great content like you, more readers would be interested in their writings. I have learned too many things from your article. https://refityourhome.com/hall-tree-for-small-spaces/
ReplyDeleteThis is my first time visit to your blog and I am very interested in the articles that you serve. Provide enough knowledge for me. Thank you for sharing useful and don't forget, keep sharing useful info: https://refityourhome.com/skateboard-swing/
ReplyDeleteI blog often and I really thahk you for your information. The article has really
ReplyDeletepeaked myy interest. I am going to boiok mark your website and
keep checking for new information about once per week.
I opted in for your RSS feed as well. 안마
All these activities are useful for us and through these, we get inspiration and feel pleasure. What is your opinion about these activities? Buy Dissertation Online.
ReplyDeleteReally I enjoy your site with effective and useful information. It is included very nice post with a lot of our resources.thanks for share. i enjoy this post. 바카라사이트
ReplyDelete(mm)
Each of the deposit codes can be used up to 10 times during the promotion period. This gives you a maximum of a whopping 900 free spins. If you cannot go all the way it does not matter. At least claim as many free spins as suited to your bankroll. The free spins will be immediately credited to your account as soon as your deposit is approved. 카지노사이트
ReplyDeleteAll winnings from the free spins will be considered as a bonus and must be wagered at least 50 times before any withdrawals can be made.