5 ways to make family movie night memorable

Disclosure: I was not financially compensated for this post.The popcorn machine was provided free by The LA Shop for review purposes. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.

One of our favorite family traditions is movie night. With just a little extra effort, you can turn any movie into a memorable event that will have your kids talking about it for weeks to come. If you are lucky enough to live in a cooler state, unlike me and my fellow Arizonians, take your movie night outside with a portable projector. Here are a few more ideas to make family movie night special:

1. Invest in a miniature popcorn machine. I’m in love with my super cute popcorn machine from The LA Shop. Not only is it super easy to make popcorn in, literally just dump a cap full of kernels in the machine and turn it on, it also adds a festive touch to movie night. Plus, it makes just the right amount of popcorn for the 3 of us. If you have a larger family, just make a few more batches (it only takes a few minutes to make a batch). The LA Shop has all sorts of other fun products, including home outdoor furniture. I have my eye on their enclosed kids trampoline for getting out some energy on hot summer days.

2. Print out movie tickets. I printed out FREE movie night printables, including movie tickets, from Sweet Daisy Designs and my 3 year old still talks about how he needed a ticket to get into movie night. I told him the only way to earn a ticket was to put away his toys, get in the bathtub and get pajamas on first. I’ve never seen my child clean up his toys and jump in the tub that fast in my life!

3. Don’t forget the concessions. I hit up the dollar store and purchase everyone’s favorite treats for movie night. You can also print out concession stand tickets for your kids to “purchase” treats with. They can earn those tickets by doing chores before movie night. I can bet your house will be spotless!

4. Forget bedtime for one night. We’re pretty strict over here about bedtime, partly because my creature of habit child thrives on a schedule and partly because I start my freelance work after bedtime, so staying up for an extra hour is extra special and memorable.

5. Grab a few glow in the dark bracelets. I usually stock up on glow in the dark bracelets and glow sticks when I see them in the dollar bins. They are my secret weapon for younger kids when the excitement of movie night wears off halfway in the movie and the rest of the family still wants to watch the movie. Plus, kids just love glow in the dark stuff and they’re just plain fun!