Picnic Ideas

Picnics for Kids Picnic tables come in a range of shapes and materials, including: rectangular, square, hexagonal, and round picnic tables, and wood, aluminum, coated steel, vinyl, and recycled plastic picnic tables. Regarding size, there are picnic tables that will seat an entire family, and there are picnic tables that are designed with children in mind. The table is where the picnic begins. How about a birthday picnic? A backyard picnic or picnic in the park is sure to please most children. Hot dogs, chips, cake, birthday balloons, paper plates, cups and napkins, disposable flatware, and of course the picnic table, are all this party requires. The trick is to keep kids busy when they aren't eating; scavenger hunts, treasure hunts, water balloon fights, balloon busting contests, kickball, tag, and sack races are surefire ways to engage kids. Picnic birthday parties are inexpensive, and the mess stays outside.

Family Picnics

Planning a picnic for a large family may require reserving space at a park where there are multiple picnic tables, playground equipment, horseshoe pits, and room for kickball, volleyball, and badminton matches. For smaller gatherings, an inviting backyard picnic table packed with food, family, and friends is quaint and relaxing. You should always have more picnic table seating than you think you'll need to welcome drop-in guests. Designate separate picnic tables for kids and adults. Grill hotdogs and burgers for kids, and steak, chicken, fish, or veggies for adults. Give your picnic a theme: Luau, Mardi Gras, Western, Roaring '20s - be creative.

Romantic Picnics

When love is in the air, plan a romantic picnic for two. Regardless of the material your picnic table is made of, it can be spruced up with a decorative table cloth and matching napkins, your favorite dishes, glassware and flatware, and candles and soft music to set the mood. Throw a couple of steaks on the grill, place foil-wrapped potatoes and corn on the cob on the coals, and don't forget the wine. Remember that red wine is best served at room temperature, and white wine should be served chilled. On those special occasions, take your romantic picnic on the road - try setting up on a blanket at the beach on a clear summer night when the stars provide a romantic glow.

Gourmet Picnics

Leave the beans and franks to the kids, and set an adult picnic table with gourmet foods. This picnic calls for real linens and the fancy dishes, glasses, and silverware. Begin with wine, cheeses, hummus, gourmet crackers, and Beluga or Russian caviar. Follow with a simple tossed salad topped with dried cranberries, fresh shrimp, and slivered almonds, accompanied by smoked salmon and pan-fried garlic bread. End with baked cinnamon apples, candied pecans, and champagne truffles.