INTERNATIONAL PICNIC DAY
INTERNATIONAL PICNIC DAY
June 18th is International Picnic Day on the National Day Calendar. Its time to pack up a blanket, fill a basket with some food and drinks, and step outside to enjoy the summertime weather by dining under the sky.
#INTERNATIONALPICNICDAY
International Picnic Day is one of the simplest celebrations that provides the opportunity to slow down, enjoy nature and share a feast with family and friends outdoors. The word itself originates from the 17th-century French term pique-nique, described as a trendy social gathering where a group of wealthy urbanites dined at a restaurant but brought their own wine or contributed a small dish to share.
During the French Revolution, the outdoor picnic became a pastime royals and aristocrat enjoyed. Eventually, every day people started picnicking in public parks. In fact, people starting spreading blankets across green lawns everywhere. It was a form of freedom and community many people never truly experienced. By the Victorian era, the trend crossed the English Channel, evolving into elaborate, multi-course social events complete with wicker hampers and fine China.
Today, a picnic is more than just eating a meal outside—it’s a declaration of freedom, a celebration of community, and a passport to global flavors. You are the planner of your own menu. You can decide if a bento box with rice, vegetables, tempura shrimp, chicken or fish, and sour plums are your choice. If you're a Turkey in flatbreads with delicious meats and cheeses, meatballs or grilled vegetables kind of person, don't forget the condiments. Pack up the prosciutto, mozzarella, Parmigiano, olives, pears, bread, and figs for a complete Italian meal. Don't forget a sweet dessert, sparkling sodas, and wines chilled to perfection.
HOW TO OBSERVE
A picnic is more than just a meal outside. It's a time to relax, enjoy nice weather and the company of friends and family. Here are some quick tips to think about in planning your next picnic.
Find a spot at your local state park, a grassy patch by a nearby lake, a public beach, or even your own backyard. If the summer weather takes an unexpected turn, don’t cancel the fun—spread a plaid blanket out right on your living room floor for a cozy indoor picnic!
Plan a potluck picnic by asking guests to bring something to the picnic. One person brings the cheeses, another handles the fresh fruit, and someone else brings a sweet dessert.
Making the best out of your picnic means planning some fun activities. Pack a cornhole game, a frisbee, or a deck of cards to help you enjoy more than just the food.
Clean up your mess at the end of your picnic by leaving your spot in the same way you found it.
Take plenty of photos of your day and share them on social media using the hashtag #InternationalPicnicDay.
INTERNATIONAL PICNIC DAY HISTORY
Our research was unable to find the creator of International Picnic Day. We'll keep searching while you pack your picnic basket. Let us know when you're ready, we're looking forward to a day outside.