Summer Picnic Ideas
Picnics are as much a part of summer as ball games, swimming pools, and summer camp. Today, The View at Mill Run Blog is sharing some picnic ideas as well as local parks to check out for picnic-friendly terrain. We’ve rounded up some picnic meal ideas ranging from easy-peasy to a full-on meal including dessert. Head out of your Owings Mills, MD apartment soon and enjoy a picnic!
Picnic Tips
One of the joys of planning a picnic is how simple it can be, but don’t mistake disorganization for simplicity. Taking the time to do a bit of planning will lead to a fun outing for everyone. Consider using this picnic packing list from Real Simple to be sure you don’t forget any picnic essentials.
Decide beforehand where you’re going to go and determine if seating (and tables) will be available or if you’ll need to bring camp chairs. Be sure to bring a trash bag and wipes for cleaning up. Bring along an activity or two to do before or after you eat. Anything from a pack of cards to a frisbee adds a nice touch to the relaxation a picnic invokes.
Picnic Theme Ideas
Portable food is one of the key factors when preparing a picnic, and the following picnic ideas all contain that particular ingredient:
English Inspired: English author, Jane Austen, writes about 19th-century picnics, painting a lovely picture of pastoral bliss. Go all out and indulge in a Jane Austen-inspired picnic, complete with a tablecloth and tea service. If the idea intrigues you, you’re not alone. Read how Anika Mehta pulled it off: How to Have a Regency Tea Party Picnic, in her blog, Hello Giggles. Bite from the Past is the perfect place to find suitable picnic food for your outing.
Italian — A Taste of the Mediterranean: What’s more Italian than pasta? Build your picnic around a pasta salad, be sure to bring along some freshly grated Parmesan to sprinkle on top. Add some olives, a cheese board, and a meat board. We suggest using cured meats such as prosciutto, speck, and salami. A nice loaf of ciabatta or focaccia bread adds a hearty touch to your Italian picnic. End with the classic cannoli for dessert — pastry and cheese never tasted so good. Bon appetit!
Parks in the Area
Baltimore County is home to a variety of parks that not only have great areas for a picnic, but are home to nature centers, dog parks, historic sites, and nature centers. Check out the county’s Parks and Facilities page to learn more about parks in our area.
We hope you have a fabulous picnic sometime this month! Thanks for reading The View at Mill Run Blog.