How to Host a Hot Tub Movie Night (and Keep the Water Clean!)

A hot tub movie night can be a memorable way to unwind and enjoy the company of friends or family. But between setting up the perfect movie setup and making sure your hot tub water stays clean, it can take a bit of planning. Here’s how to host an epic hot tub movie night that everyone will love—and ensure the water stays fresh for future soaks.

1. Setting Up the Perfect Movie Viewing Experience

The first step to a great hot tub movie night is setting up a screen and projector. Choose a projector that’s bright enough to see in low light, and set up a portable screen or hang a white sheet nearby. Keep your projector a safe distance from the water to avoid splashes. For a more relaxed vibe, add some string lights or lanterns around the area to create a cozy, outdoor cinema feel.

2. Choosing Your Movie Playlist

Pick a mix of movies that everyone will enjoy! Choose something lighthearted and fun, especially if you’re hosting friends or family. Comedies, action flicks, and classic feel-good movies are all great options for hot tub gatherings. Having a few options ready ensures that you have a backup if someone’s seen the first pick!

3. Keep Snacks and Drinks Nearby (But Not in the Water!)

Snacks and drinks add to the movie-night experience, but it’s important to keep food and beverages out of the hot tub itself. Set up a nearby table with cups, drinks, and snacks to avoid spills in the water. Finger foods like popcorn, pretzels, and fruit skewers are easy to manage and won’t create a mess. Make sure you also provide reusable cups with lids to keep drinks from spilling.

4. Maintaining Clean Water Throughout the Night

With extra people in the hot tub, it’s easy for the water to get cloudy or dirty. Before your movie night, balance your hot tub’s pH and sanitizer levels to ensure the water stays clean. Remind guests to rinse off beforehand to minimize oils and lotions entering the water. After the movie night, you can use a clarifier or sanitizer to refresh the water. AquaDoc’s Hot Tub Care Collection includes top-quality maintenance products that make it easy to keep your hot tub water fresh after gatherings.

5. Provide Cozy Accessories for Guests

Make the night extra comfortable by providing towels, robes, and slippers for guests. This keeps everyone warm when they step out of the hot tub and makes the night feel more luxurious. You might even consider adding waterproof pillows or headrests for added comfort while soaking.

6. Use a Hot Tub Cover Afterward

Once the movie ends, cover your hot tub to maintain the water temperature and prevent any debris from getting in overnight. A high-quality cover helps keep your water clean longer and reduces energy costs by retaining heat. AquaDoc also offers covers and maintenance items that help extend the life of your hot tub, ensuring that it's always ready for the next movie night.

Enjoy Movie Nights All Year Long

Hosting a hot tub movie night can be a fun way to create lasting memories. With a little planning and attention to water care, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a cozy night of movies and a fresh, clean hot tub. Follow these tips to host the ultimate hot tub movie night, and you’ll have everyone looking forward to the next one!