Four Ways To Host a Memorable Spring Picnic
Spring has sprung! The days are slowly growing warmer and longer. Birds are chirping, everything is in bloom, and the grass is lush and green again. What better way to celebrate than with a festive spring picnic on top of said lush grass? Here are some fabulous ideas on hosting the best outdoor picnic this spring.
Location, Location, Location
First, to host the ultimate spring picnic, you will want to find the best location possible. An outdoor picnic is about getting outside and connecting with nature. Ideally, find a park or accessible outdoor public space that's in an attractive and central location for you and your guests. Find a grassy spot partially shaded by trees and surrounded by local flora, where you can lay down your throw blanket to relax. Also, consider your guests—is everyone you invited comfortable sitting on the ground? You can also choose a location that has picnic tables or even consider bringing folding tables and chairs to accommodate everyone's needs.
Also, consider the time of day and the position of the sun to help you predict what's shaded when you arrive versus where the shade will be after a couple of hours. Being in the full sun can be too warm for some, while others may enjoy the sun's warm rays. If a partially shaded area isn't readily accessible, create your own shade by bringing a couple of large umbrellas or a pop-up tent.
Dress for the Occasion
Spring weather can be fairly unpredictable. Dress in layers so that you can be prepared for anything. Wear your favorite cotton sundress for the occasion, but bring along a nice sweater and scarf just in case, as you never know when it might be chillier than you anticipated. A nice broad wide-brimmed floppy hat is an adorable, chic touch to your spring picnic outfit. It can also be a smart, practical choice to keep the sun off of your face. Wear some cute sandals that you can easily slip on and off in case you feel moved to run through some lush grassy fields barefoot.
A nice touch might be to bring a basket or canvas tote full of extra sun hats and sunscreen for your guests in case the sun is more intense than anticipated. You could also pack some extra sweaters and scarves in case it's cooler than you planned for as well. Know your guests will thank you for your thoughtfulness!
Food and Beverage
This is what the picnic is all about. A sweet spring picnic calls for fun, easy-to-eat finger foods. Bring some fruits and vegetables, perhaps lovingly arranged on a fashionable platter. Pair your fruits and veggies with some savory and sweet dipping sauces such as tzatziki yogurt sauce and a chocolate hummus. Make some tiny classic finger sandwiches, such as cucumber and cream cheese or pimento cheese. Do not forget to bring some fun desserts or baked goods as well—who doesn’t love a tartlet or a chocolate croissant? Make your picnic both eco-friendly and chic by forgoing any plasticware and bringing your own cutlery and plates from home. This will also make your photos more attractive in capturing these wonderful spring memories. Take it to the next level by skipping the paper products and opting for cloth napkins and decorative hand towels.
Bring along some homemade lemonade or tea for anyone not drinking alcohol, and bring some champagne or rose for those who do (make sure you check ahead of time that whatever park you choose allows alcoholic beverages to be consumed there). Also, do not forget to bring plenty of water for everyone. Fun in the sun always requires some good hydration!
Comfort Is Key
The real secret to having a fantastic and successful outdoor spring picnic is making sure everyone is comfortable and having a great time. Bring lots of blankets and even some throw pillows to ensure maximum comfort of your guests wherever they're sitting. Create a low-key playlist and bring along a Bluetooth speaker for maximum chill vibes and enjoyment at your picnic—just be considerate of others enjoying their outdoor time too when playing music in public places. If you live somewhere that spring is already quite warm, also consider bringing along a portable fan or mister to keep guests cool and comfortable.
Have fun and make your wonderful spring picnic super memorable this year.