Packing Picnics with Pizzazz!

Story by Dana H. Lord

Summertime has arrived and with it we revive the glorious tradition of al fresco dining. A warm gentle breeze, a luscious landscape and your favorite companion by your side—what could be more delicious? Why not step outside the basket and create a picnic to remember! Your options for savoring the season are endless…

How do you pack a picnic with pizzazz? Just theme it! Choose your mood and follow through with every detail. Theme possibilities are limitless: Asian, Italian, Mediterranean, Hawaiian, Wild West, British high tea, Mexican, or American just to name a few. You could even dress the part for your picnicky party and invite your guests to do the same. If you prefer a more traditional experience, a seaside soirée, relaxing and romantic feast under the stars or hip poolside social scene are always fun options.

Theme in hand, now you can create your menu. Check out our zesty recipes or fashion your own fare. For maximum enjoyment, prepare your food ahead of time and leave your picnic for socializing. Treat your guests to all the extras that make the basic outdoor meal a lallapalooza! Some nifty necessities include: individual menu cards and place settings, condiments, garnishes, fresh flowers, music, candles, games, refreshing drinks or cocktail concoctions, and hammocks. You can even get creative with these items to keep in the theme of things … for example, use Asian fans to serve sushi or sombreros to hold chips at a Mexican fiesta!

Next—get packing. A tisket a tasket, how do you choose the perfect basket? For a conventional picnic, the classic basket is essential. If you’re aiming for a more elaborate theme, continue in that vein. Wrap food in handkerchiefs for a Wild West experience or in floral print for Hawaiian style. If you would like to make your picnic more of a sporting adventure, choose a backpack and hike to a mountain top, beautiful lake or scenic destination.

What are you waiting for? Summer won’t last long… Get out and enjoy the great outdoors!