Ready for some picnic ideas to use this summer or spring? If you are looking for some inspiration for your next picnic then you are in the right place. Picnics are great for when you are planning a romantic date with your partner or a fun family outing. Today I thought I would share 9 creative picnic ideas that will take your outdoor dining experience to the next level.
1. Beach Picnic with a Coastal Theme.
Consider a theme for your next picnic at the beach such as a coastal theme. You can decorate your picnic area with seashells, starfish, and beachy accents and be inspired by the mermaid core aesthetic.
For the menu, you can serve seafood dishes like shrimp cocktails, crab cakes, and lobster rolls. Of course, ensure you have a few other options in case someone is allergic to seafood.
Ensure that you bring beach essentials such as beach towels, sunscreen, and a beach umbrella for shade. Lastly, no coastal picnic is complete without a refreshing pitcher of homemade lemonade or iced tea. Once you have that you are all set.
2. Romantic Picnic for Two with Candlelight and Flowers.
Let’s make your next date night one to remember. If you are looking to impress your significant other with a romantic picnic for two then you will need to set the mood with candlelight and flowers.
Choose a secluded spot with a beautiful view and spread out a cozy blanket. You do not have to put in an overwhelming amount of decorations. Keep it simple with beautiful battery-operated candles or candles in mason jars then scatter rose petals around the blanket.
Serve a charcuterie board with cheese, crackers, and fruit. Add a dessert like chocolate-covered strawberries or cake for later along with a bottle of wine or champagne. Don’t forget to bring a Bluetooth speaker for some romantic tunes or bring a device that you can watch a movie on under the stairs.
3. Family-Friendly Picnic with Games and Activities.
What about if you are planning a family-friendly picnic? You can make it a day to remember simply by adding games and activities for all ages. Here are a few ideas you can try:
- Set up a volleyball net,
- Bring a frisbee,
- Create a scavenger hunt,
- Bring along a deck of cards,
- Board games.
And don’t forget to pack some food and snacks like fruits, crackers or sandwiches along with drinks to keep everyone fueled up for all the fun.
4. Rustic Picnic with a Farm-to-Table Menu.
Want a twist on a classic picnic, try a charming and rustic picnic experience with a farm-to-table menu. Make a trip to your local farmer’s market or farm stand to pick up fresh, seasonal produce and artisanal cheeses. If you don’t have the time, there are plenty of places that can send you farm fresh food.
Here are some farm-fresh ideas for your farm-to-table experience menu:
- Variety of sandwiches with fillings like roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, and homemade pesto,
- Add some homemade jams and spreads,
- A selection of fresh fruit and nuts,
- Bottle of local wine or cider.
5. Picnic with a View at a Scenic Overlook.
Sometimes a view can be the cherry on top of a picnic experience. Take your picnic to a scenic overlook with a breathtaking view like a mountaintop, cliffside, or beachside lookout. The stunning scenery will add an extra element of beauty to your outdoor dining experience that you can’t get anywhere else.
Of course, you are going to need a meal to go with this view. Pack a simple yet delicious meal, like sandwiches and fruit to enjoy. Cozy up with a blanket or lounge in chairs and soak in the scenery as one of your picnic ideas.
6. Pack Fresh Fruits and Vegetables.
Packing fruits and vegetables are the easiest and healthier snacks to bring. Plus it has the bonus of vitamins and nutrients, and if that doesn’t make you excited, it adds colour and variety to your meal. Here are a few tasty options:
- Sliced watermelon,
- Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries),
- Carrots,
- Celery,
- Cherry tomatoes,
- A simple salad with all your favourites like mixed greens, cucumbers and bell peppers,
- Hummus or a healthy dip.
7. Add Lean Proteins.
It is important to include lean proteins in picnic meals or snacks. When you choose a lean protein try to avoid using processed meats like hot dogs or deli meats. Instead, opt for the following:
- Grilled chicken,
- Turkey breast,
- Canned tuna,
- Salmon,
- Hard-boiled eggs,
- Tofu,
- Edamame.
8. Don’t Forget Condiments.
The best thing about condiments is that they can add flavour to your picnic meal. Here are some must-have condiments you should consider bringing:
- Mayonnaise,
- Creamy dressings,
- Hummus,
- Salsa,
- A vinaigrette (made with olive oil and vinegar),
- Fresh herbs and spices like basil, cilantro, or garlic.
9. Bring Drinks to Hydrate.
Lastly, it is very important to stay hydrated, especially since this activity requires you to spend time outdoors. Of course, you may decide to pack some pops/sodas, sugary drinks, juice and alcohol for the adults but don’t forget to also pack some water, infused beverages, unsweetened iced teas or sparkling water.
If you want to make your water look or taste better you can get infused water as a great way to add flavour. Another way is to add sliced fruit, herbs, or vegetables to a pitcher of water and let it sit for a few hours. Some great combinations you might like to try:
- Cucumber and mint,
- Lemon and ginger,
- Strawberry and basil.
Final Thoughts.
Now you are ready to take your outdoor dining experience to the next level with these 9 creative picnic ideas. You have plenty of picnic ideas from DIY decor to snacks that you will need to make your picnic unforgettable. Tell me, do you love picnics?
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