Don't feel like venturing to the movies but still want to create the atmosphere of a low-key, cozy evening at home, enjoying a flick with good company? Follow these suggestions to create your own movie theater experience right in your living room for friends and family to enjoy!

• Set up a food bar. There's a reason people pay an extraordinary amount of money for movie theater food—it's part of the fun of watching a film. Give your guests finger foods to snack on by setting up a table with DIY munchies that they can revisit throughout the movie. Take it one step further by putting out themed food and drinks that relate to the movie you’re showing.

• Create the right ambience. Nobody wants to watch a movie in a bright room. Make sure to turn the lights down or off. (You can leave a patch of light around the snack table.) Also, reiterate to your guests to remain as quiet as possible throughout the film and to keep their cell phones on silent with the brightness turned down.

• Make sure your sound system is up to par. If you want to go all out, think about investing in a speaker system for your television. There are pricier options you could go for or less expensive ones if you know you're only going to use them for the night. But this investment could make all the difference for any future movie showings in your home—with or without guests.

• Break out the pillows and blankets. As mentioned earlier, ambience is key. Part of this is creating the cozy effect—piling the couches with pillows and throws so guests can feel comfortable throughout the duration of the movie. Provide (or have guests bring) matching onesies or flannel pajama sets if you really want to commit to the full cozy experience.

While going to the movie theater is a fun excursion, don't forget that you can bring the theater to your living room with your own DIY setup. Make this winter a relaxing one with your closest friends and family!

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Share these in-home movie theater tips with family and friends to make for one relaxing and entertaining month!