Well, Drive-Way Theater would actually be more appropriate. I saw this idea sent in one of those grand monthly newsletters, but honestly this is fun, family quality time that my family has been doing for some time now. I grabbed up the idea after seeing Holiday decorations lit up on a neighbors garage and went, “Hmm.” So, our drive way nights were born for some great summer fun for the whole family. And, now, the entire neighborhood too! What a great idea to use for block parties!

What you need:

• Garage door or a a sheet
• DVD projector
• Extension cords

You basically need nothing to get your fun night underway. A garage door works just fine for viewing, but for families without a garage door, you can still have a great outdoor theater. Take a white sheet and place over a large area on the side of your home as flat as possible. Viola! Once you have the viewing location set, you can rent DVD projectors from your local library or recreation center from the media departments. You can also rent a screen if you prefer that over your garage. Other then these set-up items, make sure you have extension cords to power up.

Don’t forget:

• Beverages
• Snacks
• DVD
• Chairs and / or blankets

Just like a real drive-in, make sure everyone has a seat. Scatter lawn chairs and blankets about so everyone can pick their favorite spot. Tip: bring some pillows along for those sitting on the blankets! With seating now available, don’t forget the snacks! Popcorn is always a must at the movies. Try the popcorn singles. The right size for everyone without going overboard. You can also add some fun sweet treats, too. Remember beverages. Fill up water bottles and then flavor with real fruit or add a fruity flavor singles packet.

Hey! Wait a minute, don’t forget the most important part - entertainment! Pick out a great family DVD that everyone will enjoy and can spark some great conversation after viewing.

Like I mentioned earlier, drive-way theater is a great way to get together with the neighbor down the street. Make it a weekly or monthly get-together. Each theater night, allow one family to host while splitting the responsibility of the goodies among the other families. Have one family do a variety of drinks, one do a sweet snack, and the other do popcorn, and son on. Each theater night, rotate the responsibilities among the families so everyone has had the same opportunities. A great, inexpensive night!

The one tip I always forget that my newsletter reminded me off: bug repellant. Make sure to offer bug repellent to family and guests so that you can have a pleasant viewing experience.

Now go have fun!

Share with us your fun family night! We might expand on it and create a post featuring your family’s fun!

This is an original Simple Home Basics post.