How to Host a Movie Night with Your Friends

We both love to host our friends for fun activities. This week we’re each sharing ideas for different get togethers. Today it’s me, Christa, and I’m sharing my tips to host a movie night.

And check out Megan’s tips to start or host a book club.


Host a Movie Night

When you host a movie night, it doesn’t have to be in your home. If you’re short on space, consider organizing a get together at a local movie theater. You can make a whole evening out of it by meeting for dinner, or staying out later for dessert. All that really matters is the time spent with your friends, and everyone will be so glad you organized a get together.

If you do want to host at your house, then here’s the guide for you. Like all the Style Among Friends party posts, we’re here to make this easy (everything from what to buy and wear to what to serve and watch) so you can sit back and enjoy the show.


Pick the Movie

When you host a movie night, picking the movie might be the hardest part of planning! You can choose a theme (like a scary movie for Halloween, a Christmas movie in December, or a rom-com for Valentine’s Day). You can go with a new release; check on Rotten Tomatoes for the most recent releases and where they are streaming. Or you can find a classic that everyone enjoys watching no matter how many times they’ve seen it.

Pro tip: Offer two movie options and see which one the majority wants to see (or haven’t already seen). When guests RSVP, they can vote for the movie they prefer.

Here are some movies we recommend for your next Girls’ Movie Night:

Megan’s Picks

  • Almost Famous
  • Somethings Gotta Give
  • The Holiday
  • St. Elmo’s Fire
  • Barbie

Christa’s Picks

  • 50 First Dates
  • The Devil Wears Prada
  • Barb & Star Go to Vista Del Mar
  • Jerry & Marge Go Large
  • 13 Going On 30

If that’s not enough, Marie Claire magazine has The 68 Best Chick Flicks for Girls’ Night.


Wear Something Comfy to Host a Movie Night

Wear something comfortable — after all, isn’t that one of the benefits when you host a movie night in your home? Pajamas are always acceptable, but how about a fun movie-themed t-shirt like the one below. Etsy is full of fun t-shirt designs. Pair your tee with a Barefoot Dreams cardigan and some Spanx AirEssentials joggers (both brands are the definition of comfy!). (Pro tip: I’m also a HUGE fan of the Lou & Grey Signaturesoft sweatpants at LOFT, also linked below.)

And don’t forget to encourage your guests to dress comfortable, too. They can even bring their own slippers.

SHOP THE MOVIE NIGHT LOOK


Assemble Easy Snack Boxes

Easy is the key here! Using a sectioned container (I used meal prep containers from Amazon), fill each compartment with a favorite movie snack. Just tie it up with a pretty ribbon and napkin to complete the look. Instant fun movie treat (and I must say I appreciate the portion control so I don’t eat the ENTIRE bag of Twizzlers!).

And, of course, any wine pairs nicely with your snacks!

host a movie night with your friends

host a movie night


Have Seating for Everyone

Unless you have a home theater, start by deciding where you’ll watch a movie and how many people you can seat comfortably. (Keep in mind, no one wants to watch a movie for two hours sitting on the floor.)

In our basement theater, we added electric blankets by all the seats. It definitely makes watching a movie extra cozy (sometimes too cozy…zzzzzz!). While you don’t need electric blankets, a few extra throws are always nice to have on hand.


Enjoy the Show!

When you’re planning your movie night, it’s not just about watching a movie. It’s also fun to catch up. So, plan time to chat before the movie begins. Grab a glass of wine and enjoy your guests. (I’ve hosted movie night where we spend so much time chatting, we never actually watch the movie…and that’s ok, too! But we do make time to enjoy the snacks!)

Pro tip: Before everyone goes home, remember to pick a date for the next movie night!


Shop Popcorn Bowls for Movie Night

Shop for More Movie Night Fun


Looking for more fun party ideas to host for your friends? Check out these ideas, perfect any time of the year!

  • Care Package Party – create a Halloween or final exam package to show them you’re thinking about them. It’s fun to see what everyone brings to add to the boxes!
  • Flower Arranging Party – try a flower arranging party with fall or Christmas flowers. You could even consider bringing your arrangements to a local senior center.
  • How to Start or Host a Book Club – Megan’s been in a book club for 20+ years. She has all the details to get your own book club started.


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