Surviving the Summer Outdoor Movie Experience

Now that it is summer, I think it is time for the official guide to successfully attending outdoor movie screenings! I don't know about you, but movies are my favorite pastime. There's nothing I enjoy more than snuggling up alone, with my honey, or a group of friends to watch a great flick. Last summer I discovered something better - watching my favorite movies out under the stars!! Who wouldn't love to see Don't Tell Mom I Killed the Babysitter on a cool summer evening?! After last summer I am officially hooked on outdoor movies. The season has just started and I have already seen two movies - Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Anchorman. I figured why not put my love of outdoor movies to use? So without further ado, here are my tips for maximizing the outdoor movie experience.

1. Location, Location, Location. It's the same as in real estate! There's nothing worse than arriving to the movie location to find that there are no good seats left. Arrive at least an hour early to scope out the best seats, especially if you are planning on a group. Arriving early will allow you time to have dinner, relax, and even play games provided by the sponsors. And it can also double as an excuse to leave work early; I'm sure we could all use a little of that action. Woo-hoo!

2. Know the location of the nearest bathrooms/port-a-potties. This is most important. Know where the bathroom is just in case you need to use it before the night is over. When I went to the viewing at the Navy Yard, the (very smelly) port-a-potties were across an empty parking lot, which is a bit scary after dark. Think twice before heading over alone. Gateway Park in Rosslyn, VA has actual bathrooms, which was refreshing. They were out of hand soap, however, so it may behoove you to bring hand sanitizer or your own soap.

3. Bring something comfy to sit on. A comfy blanket or a low level chair is ideal to protect you from the scratchy grass. You'll be sitting out on the ground for a few hours, so you'll want to be as comfortable as possible. Also bring a light jacket if you're prone to the late night chills.

4. Don't forget the snacks...and remember to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

5. Bring some mosquito repellent! Just in case those pesky creatures start biting. Off works wonders. No one can enjoy this experience while swatting at the bugs all night.

6. Shhhhhh! Keep it down...no one can enjoy the movie if you're talking (loudly) on your phone or to your neighbor. This is not a coffee shop. Be mindful of others.

7. Respect the space. Remember to take all of your belongings when the movie is done, and this includes your trash! Leave the place cleaner than when you found it - an old girl scout adage that continues to be useful :-)

Here is a list of the outdoor movies that are playing this summer in the area. Enjoy! http://dc.about.com/od/filmfestivals/tp/OutdoorMovies.htm

What's your favorite place to watch outdoor movies?