Game day outdoors: setting up a backyard for watching big matches

Big sporting fixtures, whether an American football clash broadcast in the early hours of an Australian morning or a local final on a Saturday afternoon, have become a reason many households rethink their outdoor spaces. Watching with friends under a pergola or on a covered deck turns a broadcast into an occasion, but it works best when the space has been planned with screens, seating and weather in mind.

Shade, glare and screen placement

The biggest practical problem with outdoor viewing is glare. A television or projector screen facing an open western sky will be close to unreadable in the late afternoon. Placing the screen against a solid wall under a roofed verandah or insulated pergola, with the viewers' backs to the brightest side, makes a noticeable difference. Louvred roofs and adjustable side blinds give extra control as the sun moves.

Power, weather and safety

Any permanent outdoor power points, lighting or mounted screens should be installed by a licensed electrician using weather-rated fittings. Standard indoor televisions are not designed for humidity, rain spray or heat, so outdoor-rated displays or removable setups are worth considering. Under a solid roof, cabling can be kept tidy and out of the weather, which also reduces trip hazards when a crowd gathers.

Comfort for a long match

American football games run long once breaks are included, so seating, airflow and lighting matter. Ceiling fans rated for outdoor use, soft low-level lighting that does not reflect on the screen, and a nearby bench for food all help. In cooler months, a gazebo or enclosed verandah with café blinds keeps early-morning viewing comfortable.

If you are planning a new structure to host these gatherings, check whether it needs council approval before you build. Our FAQ covers common questions, and the gallery shows covered outdoor areas that suit social use.