Picnic Ideas...Pack a basket of fun. I have found that if you have the equipment already organized in a basket, backpack, or picnic cooler you will be more apt to picnic often and at a moments notice. Picnic food is very easy to put together – in fact many of mine have been a spur of the moment trip to a favorite deli. Keep the menu simple…it’s really not all about the food. For some picnic recipes check out our Appetizers & Snacks area. My husband and I have met many times at a lake not far from his office for a quiet lunch. It is so much more relaxing than a noisy crowded restaurant. It is a wonderful break and both of us return to work rejuvenated. We also enjoy hiking on the weekends at some of the state parks. Even when we are camping we will often pack a picnic cooler to take with us for lunch away from the campsite. You probably either live near enough to a state or national park, beach or lake area that would make a great place for a picnic. Most parks have designated areas with tables…if not take along a folding picnic table or blanket. Another picnic idea, which is one of our favorites, is taking a picnic basket to an outdoor concert. Our symphony orchestra has free concerts in the park in the summer, and a town nearby has weekly concerts with a different type of music each week. These are great family events where everyone spreads a blanket and enjoys a light dinner with fabulous music. If you are planning a large gathering of family and friends check to see if area parks accept reservations. Many have pavilions that they will reserve for you at a nominal fee. It is worth planning ahead as the best spaces are often taken well in advance. Theme parties are always fun for large gatherings. It can be as simple as cheering your favorite team (plan food around team colors). Tailgating has emerged as a sport in itself, and for many is as important as the game. Incorporate a picnic into a child’s birthday party. I haven’t seen a child yet that didn’t like eating outside. It also eliminates clean-up issues with spills & dropped food. Maybe that is why they like it so much…they don’t have to worry about accidents. Plan finger foods for small hands. If you want to get creative use a cookie cutter to cut out fun shapes for their sandwiches. You’ll be their hero.
If you have a picnic idea that you would like to share please
click here
...we would love to hear from you.
|
