Summer Means Picnic Time

The sun is bright in the sky, the air is nice and warm and that can only mean one thing, time for summer picnics!  Picnics are a great way to enjoy the outdoors with your family and friends. It’s easy to prepare for a picnic without a lot of stress. You can plan a large picnic with several friends or family, or a small one with just your children and spouse. Either way, it makes for a fun, relaxing day in the sun. 

Summer Picnic Locations

There are many fantastic places to have a picnic.  Of course, the most common place is your local park.  There you have swings and a playground for the children to play on.  Often there are restrooms open to the public, and picnic tables to sit on.  Parks are a very convenient and easy way to do a picnic.  

Other venues might include festivals or craft fairs going on in your town.  Find a small corner away from the activities, then spend your time enjoying it all from a

far. Another great venue is local free concerts.  Enjoy some great entertainment while you stretch out on a blanket, eat good food, and spend family time together.

Some great picnic locations might include traveling a little way to enjoy a lake or stream in the mountains.  Do you have a favorite hiking trail that you can stop and enjoy a picnic on?  

And if all else fails, there is always your own backyard! That’s the easiest of all with all the conveniences right there.  You can still make it a special picnic by setting the scene in a special spot in the yard.  Perhaps under a big, shady tree or close to the swing set.  No matter where you decide to picnic, you want to make it as special and stress free as you can.  And of course, have fun!

Summer Picnic Food

Making food for your lunch is half the fun.  Plan together what you want to bring.  Include favorites that you know everyone will enjoy.  For example, does your family enjoy sandwiches?  A good old peanut butter and jelly will make everyone happy.  Or how about a sub sandwich with all the fixings. Find a nice picnic basket or use a cooler to pack all goodies in and you’ll be ready to go.

Easy Finger Foods to Take:     

• Veggies (celery sticks, carrots, cucumbers) 
• Grapes, strawberries
• Pre-cut fruit (watermelon, cantaloupe)
• Mini sandwiches (easier to pack)
• Cheese and crackers
• Brownies 

Summer Picnic Essentials

You’ll want to pack essentials to make your summer picnic safe and enjoyable.  Being prepared will make your time special without interruptions.  If you go to a location other than a park, you’ll want to include some activities to keep children busy.  Take along some cards for games, maybe some books to read.  Also, include a frisbee, football, baseball and glove, or a soccer ball to have some fun with.  

• Quilt or blanket
• Cooler and ice
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Insect Spray
• Sanitizing wipes
• Utensils
• Plates and cups
• Cutting board and knife
• Trash bags
• Paper towels
• Safety kit

Finally, remember a coat or sweatshirt.  Colorado weather can change suddenly.  You will need to be prepared for that sudden drop in temperature.  

With these guidelines, you’ll be set for a special summer family picnic.  Enjoy your summer and your outings!