With all the travel restrictions in place, we’ve been finding new ways to make the most of our summer. We don’t want to look back and regret spending the season stuck indoors, so we’ve been embracing something simple yet incredibly fun—picnics!
Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever had a proper picnic before, and now it feels like we’re having them all the time—haha! It’s such an easy way to enjoy the outdoors while spending quality time together. Parents can relax while the kids run around and play… it’s the perfect setup!
If you’re looking to plan your own picnic, here are some great ideas on what to pack and what to eat to make it a success!
PICNIC IDEAS
First, choosing the right location is key to a successful family picnic. Ideally, you’ll want a spot surrounded by nature where you can spread out a blanket and give the kids plenty of space to run and play. A large park or an arboretum is perfect, but even your own backyard can work in a pinch! That said, exploring a new place makes the experience feel extra special—after all, we’ve spent plenty of time at home already, haven’t we? 😉
PICNIC FOOD IDEAS
When it comes to picnic food for the family, I like to keep things simple—no need to go all gourmet! Classic sandwiches are always a great choice since they’re easy to make, pack, and customize for everyone’s taste. Wraps are another fantastic option if you’re looking for a little variety.
For sides, fresh fruit and pasta salad are always a hit. We love mandarins, grapes, apples, and cherries, but seasonal picks like peaches, plums, and watermelon are just as delicious! Other easy side ideas include veggies with hummus, chips, granola bars, deli meat pinwheels, chips and salsa, a cheese ball with crackers, potato salad, cheese sticks, pretzels, a salami tray, and hard-boiled eggs.
As for drinks, you can keep it simple with bottled water or go for something light and refreshing like La Croix. Lemonade and juice are great choices too! For the adults, consider packing hard cider, a wine cooler, or cold brew in to-go cups.
And of course, no picnic is complete without dessert! Bring along cookies, bars, brownies, or pudding for a sweet treat. Not in the mood to bake? Just swing by the grocery store bakery and grab whatever looks good!
WHAT TO PACK FOR A PICNIC
You really don’t need much for a great picnic! The essentials are simple—food, drinks, something to carry everything in, maybe some silverware, and a blanket. But if you want to make things even easier, there are a few extra items that can come in handy. Shop more picnic must-haves here!
WHAT TO DO
When you’re outdoors the options are really endless! As parents you could sit and watch your kid run around or play at the playground (if you’re at a park). Or you could all do some family activities together such as kickball or go on a nature walk or scavenger hunt.
I hope this post encourages you to get outside, enjoy yourself, and create special memories during a summer that turned out differently than we all expected.
