Taking the kids to the outdoor movies on the square is one of my favorite events of the summer. However, along the way we’ve learned a few things when it comes to making the movies a success. Here are a few tips that can make your outdoor movie experience a breeze.

Dress Warm
It might be warm when you show up, but regardless you’re going to want to bring a sweater, a blanket and something to sit on. Last summer Jamie made a trip home mid-movie to grab some warmer clothes for the kiddos (who were wearing PJs) and for me, because it got a bit colder than we anticipated.

Bring the Drinks
Like any outdoor event that’s happening in the city, you’re going to want to bring your own drinks. Bring juice, water and drinks that are going to help offset the cost of the food purchased from the delicious food trucks that make their rounds and to quell the $4 drinks the kids demand mid way throughout the movie.

Fight the Bugs
When you’re downtown at Movies on the Square, it’s not likely that you’re going to get eaten alive by the bugs. However, if you make your way over to Broadmoor Lake in Sherwood Park to catch the movies and the festivities you’re going to want to bring something to get rid of the bugs. Bring a lantern, spray bug spray on yourself (and everything) and you might just make it through the movie without getting carried away by mosquitoes.

Pack Light
If you’re going to be carrying kids that are tired/sleeping at the end of the night, you’re going to want items that are light and easily carried. Pack lightweight chairs and blankets, bags - to make carrying those sleeping kids much easier.

Come Early
There are a ton of fun events that come with outdoor movies and you’re going to want to get there early to enjoy them. Get there early and take advantage of tattoos, dance parties, appearances by people dressed up like Spiderman and the like, and of course – the food. Plus, you’re going to want to get there early and claim a spot for your blanket and chairs.

Pack Snacks
There are food trucks and other fun food available at most of these events, but to keep to the theme of being frugal and enjoy the free movie with the family you should pack snacks that travel well, at-home, before you go. We like to plan for a dinner picnic and either pack dinner to go (with extra drinks and movie snacks) or grab something to bring with us.

Look for sales on juice boxes, popcorn and movie snacks (candy) to stash in the pantry and bring along with you, you’ll save a few bucks buying on sale, before the event.

What are your favorite tips for making outdoor movies in Edmonton a success?