It’s almost Memorial Day, and for a lot of us, that is our first BIG picnic of the season! Whoo Hoo! I love this time of year and, of course, I love picnics. It’s a great way to get the family together, get outside, and make memories. If you’re like my family, we love to go to the park, take walks, hike, and, of course, eat! We do picnics all summer long, but Memorial Day weekend is usually the biggie. So, whether you’re just going to cook out on the grill on the back deck, or going all out with a huge family reunion, it helps to have a plan! (You knew I was gonna say that, didn’t you?) Well, Memorial Day weekend is almost here, so let’s get started:
- Top priority is to plan where to have your picnic and who to invite. If you’re inviting a big crowd, such as for a family reunion or block party, you might need to find a venue to accommodate a lot of people. If you’re having it at a park, you will probably need to make reservations asap. If you’re having an impromptu picnic in your own backyard, you just need to start planning your space and where to put tables and food. Make your guest list, invite people and, if possible, delegate some of the menu items for guests to bring. You might want to make the main dishes and let everyone bring desserts or drinks.
- Plan the menu. Plan some items to be grilled for a real authentic picnic, and then make side dishes to go with the main entrees. Some suggested menu items are listed below this post.
- Prepare or cook some items at home if you’re having the picnic at a park.
- Remember food safety: Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Keep food on ice to prevent food poisoning.
- Remember to bring condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, etc.
- Include a plastic tablecloth, napkins, cups, paper plates, plastic eating utensils, and ice.
- Bring a first-aid kit, band-aids, bug repellent, lighter for the outdoor grill, and sunscreen.
- Remember to bring the fun items like frisbee, footballs, croquet set, outdoor games, toys, and blankets.
MENU SUGGESTIONS
Hot dogs and brats, cole slaw, macaroni and cheese, chips, strawberry shortcake
Hamburgers, pasta salad, fresh veggie tray, watermelon, brownies
Grilled chicken, corn on the cob (grilled), fresh fruit, cake with homemade ice cream
Grilled pork chops, baked beans, salad, berry cobbler
I’m getting hungry just from writing this! I can’t wait! Yay, Summer! What does your family do on picnics? What do you eat and what kind of outdoor activities do you do? Please let us know by leaving comments below.
Have a great summer!