Top 5 Fourth of July Outdoor Movie Ideas

One of our favorite holidays as outdoor movie enthusiasts is the Fourth of July!

There’s no better time to pull out your CineBox system and watch a movie under the stars. The Fourth is about celebrating our country’s independence with family and friends, and spending time together has become one of the most important parts of the day.

After watching the fireworks at your nearby community park, it’s a perfect time to enjoy an outdoor movie with family and friends. The summer evenings are cool and comfortable, and the kids are often out of school the next day.

So if the timing is perfect for an outdoor movie, which flick is best for the holiday? We thought we’d assemble a short list in case you can’t decide what film will make the night memorable for everyone:

1. This Is America, Charlie Brown

This fun movie for the entire family features the favorite comic-strip character Charlie Brown in an eight-part miniseries focusing on historical events in our nation. The series is no longer manufactured, but can often be found on eBay or Amazon. It’s appropriate for all ages and would be a great choice for a young family with small children.

2. The Crossing

This Peabody Award-winning film starring Jeff Daniels tells the story of how General George Washington made a significant offensive move that turned the tables in the Revolutionary War. It’s a great movie for the entire family, and will help everyone remember why we’re free. The film has a PG rating.

3. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

This film, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning classic novel by Harper Lee, stars Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch, a lawyer in the South who defends a Black man accused of a crime he did not commit. Against great adversity, Atticus chooses what is morally right as he stands up for truth and equality. The film won three Oscars and many other awards, and is heralded by some as one of the most memorable films of the 20th century. It doesn’t carry a rating, but it may not be for small children, as it deals with difficult and complex situations. We’d suggest it for an older audience or a family who will appreciate the significance of the film’s values.

4. The Patriot

This film starring Mel Gibson is a fictional story set during the American Revolution. The Patriot is packed with historical detail and will remind you and your audience of the sacrifices made by the founders of our country. Gibson delivers a stellar performance as a humble American militiaman who fights against the British. The Patriot is rated R and has some very violent moments, so it’s not for young children. Make sure you’ve seen it before deciding whether to screen it with your family — it would make an excellent date-night holiday film!

5. Independence Day

Set in and around New York City, this action-packed movie starring Will Smith keeps the holiday spirit alive as Smith helps defend the Earth from an alien attack, uniting all of humanity in an epic struggle. Independence Day is rated PG-13, and some moments might not be suitable for young children, so watch it beforehand to decide whether it’s appropriate for your family or community.