There’s a special magic that settles over the Okanagan Valley on a warm summer evening. As the sun slips behind the rolling hills, the air carries hints of sagebrush and pine, and the day’s heat gives way to a gentle coolness. It’s the perfect backdrop for one of the region’s most beloved traditions: the outdoor movie.

This isn’t about sticky-floored multiplexes. This is about sinking into a lawn chair with a glass of local wine as a classic film flickers to life under the stars or beside a vineyard. It’s the perfect blend of rustic charm and laid-back sophistication, the very spirit of the Okanagan lifestyle.

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Where to Catch a Movie Under the Stars

You don’t have to look far to find an outdoor screening in the Okanagan. Several wineries and community groups have made it a staple of summer.

• Wineries: Wineries like Grizzli Winery in West Kelowna and OAK Estate Winery in Summerland host regular movie nights. These events pair their signature vintages with big-screen favorites in spectacular vineyard settings. Picture a crisp Pinot Gris in hand as a Hollywood classic plays under a starlit sky, unforgettable.
• Community Events: The Moonlight Movie Tour, presented by Beem Credit Union and BGC Okanagan, offers free family-friendly screenings in parks across the valley. Recent stops include Memorial Park in West Kelowna and City Park in Kelowna, creating the perfect night out for neighbors to gather and connect.

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Creating Your Own Backyard Cinema

While public screenings are fantastic, there’s something special about creating your own backyard cinema. It’s easier than you think, and it might just make you the most popular host in the neighborhood.

• The Essentials: You’ll need a projector, a screen, and a solid sound system. Local companies like Amuzing Fun Rentals and FreshAirCinema can supply everything from inflatable screens to professional-grade projectors, even a popcorn machine for the full theatre vibe.
• The Ambiance: Once the tech is handled, focus on making it cozy and inviting. Mix beanbags and Adirondack chairs, add soft blankets, and hang string lights for that warm, welcoming glow. A drink station stocked with local wines and craft beers plus some classic movie snacks will complete the experience.

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The Real Estate of Entertainment

The true magic of Okanagan living is that it goes beyond the breathtaking scenery, it’s about a lifestyle built on connection, relaxation, and memorable moments. Whether you live in a modern Kelowna home with a spacious backyard or a cozy Peachland cottage with a patio under the stars, many properties in the valley offer the perfect canvas for creating your own outdoor cinema. It’s not just about a house, it’s about seeing the possibilities to turn your space into an oasis of entertainment and comfort, all year round.

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Living the Dream

In the Okanagan, you don’t have to travel far to find paradise, you can build it right where you are. As the credits roll and the stars shine overhead, you’ll realize you’re not just watching a movie; you’re living in one.

Ready to find your own slice of this staycation lifestyle? Connect with us to explore homes where your next backyard movie night could become a reality.