August is for picnics!

August is, according to some, National Picnic Month. During this month, we find National Watermelon Day on August 2; Ice Cream Sandwich Day on August 3; National S’mores Day on August 10; and National Banana Split Day on August 25. That’s a lot of good food!

So, what is a picnic? Merriam-Webster defines it as “an excursion or outing with food usually provided by members of the group and eaten in the open.”

Simple enough, but what do you eat? Also simple: pretty much anything you want. The key is to include food that travels well and is easily eaten outdoors. Finger foods are best. Traditional items include some kind of sandwich, or maybe fried chicken, with a salad, such as potato or pasta salad, and a dessert, like cookies, brownies, or slices of pie. Charcuterie is another popular choice, since sliced cheeses and meats are easy to eat anywhere. Fresh fruit is easy to include. Add a bottle of wine, iced tea, or lemonade to complete the meal.

Get creative with the destination. Pick a meadow that is easy to get to, or a scenic overlook. A park or an area beside a river are good choices. Or be more adventurous, and find a hiking destination with a good view. And remember that many wineries allow you to bring your own food, while you enjoy their wines, and many have beautiful areas to sit and enjoy.

And take people you want to spend time with. A picnic can be a very romantic date, or a good way for friends to catch up.

Whatever you like, try a picnic this month! Below are some resources to help you get started.

Resources:

“How to Pack the Perfect Picnic”: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/how-pack-perfect-picnic

“11 Easy Things to Bring to a Summer Picnic”: https://www.tablespoon.com/holidays-parties/best-picnic-foods

“80 Picnic Food Ideas to Pack in Your Basket”: https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/summer-recipes-to-pack-in-your-picnic-basket/

“Everything You Need to Pack for the Perfect Picnic”: https://www.thespruce.com/top-supplies-for-picnics-1197628

“15 Essentials to Pack for Any Picnic”: https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/81625/15-things-always-pack-picnic

“10 Great Spots To Have A Picnic In NoVA”: https://northernvirginiamag.com/things-to-do/things-to-do-features/2020/06/22/10-great-spots-to-have-a-picnic-in-nova/

“8 Unique Spots for the Perfect Picnic In Fairfax County”: https://www.fxva.com/blog/post/unique-spots-for-the-perfect-picnic-in-fairfax-county/

“Romantic Picnic Ideas for Two”: https://zestfulkitchen.com/romantic-picnic-ideas-for-two/

“Romantic Picnic Ideas for Couples”: https://picniclifestyle.com/romantic-picnic-ideas-for-couples/

“10 Fun Ideas for Things to Do on a Picnic”: https://docklinemagazine.com/2021/06/things-to-do-on-a-picnic/