Finding affordable activities to fill the days can be difficult. I recently came across an article in Vogue, and for once found it inspiring. Among their, “10 Reasons to Love New York This Summer”, was a suggestion that can be enjoyed outside of New York, basically anywhere. It was a Picnic. The great thing about picnics is the ability for them to take just about any form. From romantic to playful this is the perfect activity for any age or relationship.
Picnic in the park
Find a shady tree and unfold your picnic basket.
With the kids:
-Pack up some PB&J’s. Use cookie cutters to make fun shapes out of these bite sized sandwiches.
-Next on the menu, fresh squeezed lemonade is always better than the store bought carton. Add some cranberry juice and you’ll have pretty pink lemonade.
-For dessert pack up some of their favorite fruit such as raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries in bite size pieces.
With a beau:
-Pack an artisan sandwich on fresh bread from the bakery; pick out a unique cheese, some fresh herbs such as basil, a juicy tomato, and your favorite deli meat.
-Next head to the wine aisle and grab a cold bottle of bubbly Prosecco. It will be refreshing on a warm summer day or night. Or pick out a beer from a local microbrewery.
-For dessert, there are plenty of options. Brule in Delray has a great selection that can be easily packed up for the park. Everything from molten chocolate cake, to crème brule sits picturesquely in their pastry case. Stay away from items that could easily melt and pick something refreshing.
Picnic on the beach
Prop up the beach umbrella and pack an extra large blanket for optimal shade and comfort.
With the kids:
Head to the beach early and bring the cooler because nothing is better than a cold drink or snack when playing in the waves.
-For a morning snack, pack a muffin or donut that the kids handpicked from your favorite spot. Don’t forget the chocolate milk and OJ.
- For a cool snack, go for the grapes. These are easy to pop in your mouth and will stay nice and cold in the cooler.
- Stay hydrated with some homemade iced tea.
- Keep their energy high with snacks such as sunflower seeds, almonds, or raisins. If your kids love just about everything, make a tasty bag of trail mix with their favorite nuts seeds and dried fruits.
With a beau:
Pack a large blanket, some battery powered lighting and get ready for a night of stargazing.
-Quiche is a great substitute for the typical pizza night. Make this Goat Cheese with Prosciutto during the day and you’ll be all ready for a deliciously romantic dinner that night.
- Mix up your favorite cocktail and put it in a thermos, which will keep it cool and make for an easy shaker. Don’t forget the cups!
- For a sweet ending pack some homemade chocolate chip cookies.
Completely stuck or looking for new flavors to discover? Check out perfectpicnicnyc.com for a unique picnic basket filled with tasty treats.