Method 31: How Kids Can Set Up an Outdoor Movie Theater for Money

How Kids Can Set Up an Outdoor Movie Theater for Money

Who doesn’t love a good movie? Kids always love to watch movies, and with a little bit of effort, you kids can create your own backyard movie theater. You are going to need a Mini Multimedia Movie Projector and a screen or white even wall though, so be sure to ask your parents for one for Christmas! Having your own miniature outdoor movie theater can be super fun, and it will bring out your creative side. Don’t forget the concessions or decorations!

How kids can make money with movies: Kids can make a bit of extra money with an outdoor movie theater. Sell admission tickets and concessions to neighborhood kids.
How kids can make money with movies: Kids can make a bit of extra money with an outdoor movie theater. Sell admission tickets and concessions to neighborhood kids.

What Movies Should a Kid Show in His or Her Movie Theater at Home?

Pocahontas would be an excellent movie for kids to watch- it's a Disney Classic!
Pocahontas would be an excellent movie for kids to watch- it’s a Disney Classic!

The movie industry is changing movies all the time, meaning any example I give will be outdated within a month’s time.  The best method here is to choose any popular G or PG rated movies that have released in the last year or two. You could even show Disney classics such as The Little Mermaid, The Fox and the Hound, or Bambi. Any popular movie that kids love is a good choice. Chances are the kids have already seen the movies, but this is an outdoor “theater”, which adds to the excitement! If you want something a bit different, try some youtube video shows!

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How Much Admission Should Be Charged for a Backyard Movie Show?

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Selling popcorn is super easy for children. It’s easy to make, cheap, and makes money, it’s a super popular concession.

It is advised to do a very low admission cost. This way, parents in the area are more than willing to let their kids come for a showing. For $1 or $2 per kid, it’s definitely a good price for the parent to get a little time to relax! You could also sell concessions on top of this to earn a little more. Classics such as popcorn, hot dogs, and nachos and cheese are quick and easy to make.

If there are 20 kids, that is $40 if you charge $2 for admission. A pack of 8 hotdogs and 8 buns is $2 together; so a hot dog would only cost you $0.25 and you could sell them for $1. Drinks could sell for $1, and you could make tea or lemonade so the cost is even cheaper. If 20 kids bought a hotdog and drink on friday and saturday, that is a total earning of $150 per weekend. WOW! That’s a lot of money for a kid who’s just showing movies in the backyard!

How Can a Kid Advertise His or Her Movie Theater Business to Local Families?

ads-150905_1280Advertising can be done in several different ways. One of the best is to tell neighborhood kids and families, and making sure everyone sees the progress that is being made on the “movie theater”. Watching the process happen will keep people excited for the grand opening. You can place ads in the local paper, hand out your own flyers, or place ads online in local community groups. Opt for free adverting methods though; you don’t want to pay for advertising unless you’re making plenty of money off of admissions and concession sales.