Forgo fighting traffic to fireworks displays and skip the near misses with backyard fireworks this year. Celebrate a fun and safe Fourth of July with a special movie night under the stars. Here are a few ideas for Independence Day entertaining with patriot-themed flicks and treats that will create a memorable holiday for the whole family.
Show Me the Movie
Reserve your seat on a raft, or lie back on chaise loungers or snuggle in sleeping bags for an outdoor movie night. Project movies on a wall or an inflatable or tripod screen. Get in the spirit with July 4th favorites like the original Rocky, featuring a finale in Philly on July 4; family classic Pollyanna (1960) with the sweetest-ever rendition of America the Beautiful by Haley Mills; the patriotic adventure Captain America (2011); G
eorge Lucas’ iconic American Graffiti; or the quirky Miss Firecracker (1989) with Holly Hunter.
Awe your audience with the Epson MegaPlex MG-850 HD ($799), an ideal projector for watching movies outdoors or in areas with high ambient light. The MegaPlex blasts 2,800 lumens onto screens as big as 100 inches and can display movies from a variety of devices, such as a computer or stand-alone DVD/Blu-Ray player. Before the movie and during intermission you can plug in your i-device to play music, videos or an old fashioned family slide show.
Chill Out
Let it snow on a hot summer movie night with homemade snow cones. The Warning Snow Cone Maker ($69.95) shaves mounds of icy snow cones in minutes with a professional grade motor and blade system. Add gourmet flavorings like Mandarin Tangerine, Concord Grape and Morello Cherry (set of three syrups, $32.00; snow cone and straw set, $.950) for a memorable refreshing novelty dessert that will make your July 4 party a hit. Snow Cone Maker and supplies available at Williams-Sonoma.
