If the idea of a winter picnic conjures up pictures of you shivering under a blanket while biting into a cold meal, please listen to us. Don’t let the cold weather scare you; embrace it instead! As long as you are properly prepared, winter picnicking is a rewarding and fun experience for the whole family. A winter picnic can be just as enjoyable and it’s a great way to recharge on a long winter walk. Whether its winter picnic food ideas you need or tips on finding picnic places. We have them all.
Here are our best tips to ensure you have a warm and fun-filled experience, wherever you organize a winter picnic with kids or grown-up. If you want to know how to have the ideal picnic, read on for our handy guide.
Ideal Picnic Spots
Deciding where to host a winter picnic is the first step. We would advise picking the location that would be the utmost convenience for you. Examples of places:
- your backyard
- on your very own living room carpet. (It can be very romantic or a great family night.)
- the local town or city park (be sure to tidy up after yourself!)
- the beach (make a fire if allowed – be responsible)
- when attending a tailgate party or a winter trek (if you're used to such things)
- If you have kids, build an indoor tent with chairs and blankets, and pretend to be camping while enjoying your picnic.
The location you choose will mostly depend on you, your transportation, and the visitors... thus make a sensible choice. And if in doubt, we'd advise choosing the most convenient spot!
It’s all about the food
You can still enjoy traditional cold picnic foods, like salads, quiche and sandwiches, but it helps to bring some hot food and snacks as well to keep you warm. Pack hot and cold food separately in thermal insulated bags or cooler bags to keep things fresh. Here are some delightful winter warmers that will bless your tastebuds.
Here are some simple but still delicious food ideas:
Hot Soup
A steaming bowl of soup is the best way to warm up, and there are countless flavor combinations to choose from. Pick your favorite or be daring and try something else. In either case, a winter picnic must have hot soup.
Warm drinks
For a winter picnic beverage, consider hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. Even more elegantly, you may prepare some mulled wine in advance. Whatever option you decide on, be sure to pack plenty for everyone and perhaps even a bit more.
Chilli
On a chilly day, what could be better than a big pot of chili? When you're ready to eat it, prepare it ahead of time and reheat it on your travel stove. Remember the toppings!
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Dessert is a must-have for every picnic. These chewy, soft chocolate chip cookies are oozing with melted chocolate delight. They are simple to prepare and carry to your picnic location. Enjoy!
Chilli in a Bread Bowl
This hearty dish is the perfect winter warmer. For more rustic appeal, serve it in a bread dish that has been hollowed out. For added flavor, mix in with shredded cheese, sliced onions, and sour cream.
Potato Soup in a Thermos
Potato soup is a fantastic addition to a winter picnic menu. To keep food warm, prepare your favorite recipe and pour it into a thermos. Serve alongside crusty bread for dipping. Yum!
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
The best classic comfort food is grilled cheese sandwiches. For a tasty and portable dinner, serve them with a cup of tomato soup. If you're particularly peckish, add some bacon or ham!
Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
This hearty, creamy casserole is a fantastic choice. Before leaving for your picnic, put it in the oven because it tastes best when it is warm. Make sure to include some forks and plates so that everyone can eat.
Pack Smart
Avoiding overpacking is the secret to a nice picnic. While you should pack the necessities, keep in mind that you are going mostly to enjoy the leisure time with your friends. If carrying a rustic picnic basket all the way to the picnic location seems too much work, think about bringing the best cooler backpack instead! Everything you need can be carried on your back.
Here's what you need to pack for a winter picnic:
- plenty of waterproof blankets
- adequate snow clothes
- tissues for stuffy, cold noses
- torch, lantern, or flashlight
- paper towels
- matches or lighter if planning a bonfire
- cooler or picnic basket for the food
- portable folding chairs for picnics
- If you're going for a longer hike, bring a picnic backpack
- mugs for camping or sturdy bowls
- spoons for stirring hot chocolate and soup
- water bottles
- any additional dishes and equipment you decide to bring
Conclusion
A word of caution: avoid picking a day that will be extremely windy or chilly. Keep in mind that you want to remove as many barriers as you can so that you can enjoy your winter picnic! Additionally, as is customary in the cold, ensure sure everyone is clothed appropriately. If necessary, layers can always be taken off.
So there you have it, the breath-taking best winter picnic ideas! There is certainly a site on our list that is ideal for you. So why are you still waiting? Grab your backpack and go on your next picnicking adventure!