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You have had more movie nights than you can count with your grandchild but have you ever hosted a full-blown film festival? As its name suggests, a film festival is a collection of movies just premiering, so why not use this concept to cuddle up and watch new-to-you movies?
While you can always watch full-length films, I like to do shorter family-friendly ones that we find on Netflix or Disney+, as it makes it easier to watch several in one sitting (and it makes it easier for stretch and bathroom breaks). Movies on their own are fun, but you, like me, are a Devoted Grandma who likes to make things even more special and memorable, which is why I wanted to share my steps on how to host a mini film festival with and for your grandkids.
Lights, camera, action:
1. Choosing the right movies
Independent film festivals often screen darker movies, but we won’t do that – we want feel good and cheerful at ours! As I mentioned in the intro, you can find lots of shorts on most streaming services, but be sure to do a quick Google beforehand to ensure the content is appropriate for little eyes and ears.
2. Create your program
Now that you have selected your films, it’s time to comprise your program, whether for them to hold or for you to hang on poster board. A program is a fun and easy way to make the evening more special and a great way to set the night’s expectations.
3. Transform your living room into a theater
There’s no need to travel elsewhere for a film festival when you can bring all the glitz and glamour of the theater to your living room! Give the room a cozy makeover with drawn blinds, dim lighting, and many pillows and blankets to keep everyone comfortable.
4. Tickets, please!
What? Your grandkids didn’t think they were walking into a film festival without a ticket, did they? (Hehe.) You can easily find printable tickets via a quick Google search, OR you and the grands can have a craft session to design and make your own keepsake tickets.
5. Plan for breaks between each movie
We’re not forgetting the popcorn refills and bathroom breaks! Short intermissions are the perfect time for a quick stretch, to talk about the movie or a quick snack top-up. Speaking of snacks…
6. Stock your concession stand
No movie – let alone film festival – is complete without snacks! From popcorn to candies and pretzels, let’s line them up for our little moviegoers. (I like to stock up on boxes of candy and other treats at Dollar Tree!)
This one is entirely optional, but to keep the excitement levels high, I plan a few fun activities related to the movies, whether it be a quick trivia quiz, a drawing session, or even a mini costume contest.
8. Play movie critic
At the end of each movie, encourage some film critique by asking them about their favorite characters, scenes they found funny, and anything they learned. Remember: It’s all about making the experience interactive and educational!
9. Pjs > gowns and tuxes
Most people dress to the nines at film festivals, but Grandma’s house is all about comfort, so break out the PJs before the first movie. (I will take my comfy pajamas over designer garb any day.)
Conclusion
Cut! What do you think – it’s a fun way to mix up movie night, right? I hope you and your grandkids enjoy this cinematic extravaganza at Grandma’s house! Happy hosting and even happier viewing. 🙂 Let’s talk again soon!
