Atlantans are swapping plush theater seats for grass and beach chairs at summer outdoor movie festivals.

The free films are frequent outings for Sherri Caldwell and her family. The Morningside residents arrive early for the shows, which start at dusk in Midtown and downtown parks.

Joey Ivansco/AJC (ENLARGE)
Sherri Caldwell recommends bringing a blanket and pillows or short beach chairs when attending summer outdoor movie festivals sucb as Screen on the Green.
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"It's just so nice because generally it's a more community feel. Generally they're classic nostalgia movies, just getting to share that with your kids in a more laid-back atmosphere," she said. "A lot of their friends are generally there, too. It's just a nice chance to be with a little community."

That routine with her three kids, ages 8, 11 and 13, is combined with trips to the Starlight Six Drive-In on Moreland and to suburban movie theaters to watch cheap summer family-friendly flicks.

Caldwell, who also writes about parenting on www.rebelhousewife.com, shared five guidelines for outdoor movie etiquette and for enjoying screenings under the stars.

Do pack a picnic.

Caldwell brings a cooler (make sure they're allowed) filled with sodas and water and popped microwave popcorn. For the meal, "we usually stop and pick up a pizza (from Fellini's), no matter what we do. It's easier for the family."

Don't wait until the last minute.

She likes to get there well before the movie starts to park, claim space to view the screen, set up the picnic and relax. "It's a lot of fun when you go in the day and the kids have a chance to run around and play."

Do bring something to do before the movie.

She recommends blow-up beach balls, instead of Frisbees or hard balls. They're safer, and the crowd usually ends up tossing it around before the movie.

Don't arrive empty-handed.

She also advises bringing a blanket and pillows if the kids want to lie on the grass, bug spray, and even swimsuits, if you're at a place like Centennial Olympic Park that has a fountain.

Don't block the view.

Bring a short beach chair so that people behind you can see.