How to set up an Outdoor Movie Screening in a Parking Lot

One of the best things about an inflatable movie system from Open Air Cinema is its flexibility, portability, and quality. Built tough to go almost anywhere, your system is perfect for an outdoor movie screening whenever and wherever you like. A parking lot is often the venue of choice, thanks to flat ground and open space. Here are a few tips for your next parking-lot screening. With a little planning and enough setup time, you’ll be entertaining dozens, hundreds, or thousands before you know it.

Basic Setup

First, make sure you have enough power. You’ll need an electrical source for the screen’s blower — which runs throughout the event to keep the screen inflated — plus your sound system, video player, and projector, so bring enough extension cords and power strips. Depending on the location, you may need a generator; scout your site beforehand so there are no surprises. Next, clear the asphalt of any debris — nails, glass, or anything that could damage the screen — and lay down a protective surface such as a black ground tarp or carpet. Set the screen on the clear area, inflate it, and use the attached support straps to weigh it down with something small and heavy like sandbags or free weights. Spend a few moments making sure the screen is anchored evenly so it can’t shift in the wind.

Showtime

Once the screen is inflated, the power is running, and all the components are connected, you’re set to deliver a great outdoor movie screening. Give yourself enough time to troubleshoot anything that comes up during setup — a little preparation goes a long way toward impressing your audience. As always, contact us if there’s anything we can help with.