A Complete Guide to Planning a Chic Picnic This Season
Photo by S O C I A L . C U T on Unsplash
Looking to plan the perfect Instagram-worthy picnic? Whether you’re channeling a “hot girl summer” or a “soft girl summer,” picnics are the ultimate way to romanticize your life by dining al fresco. Thanks to their rising popularity on social media and Gen Z's influence, picnics are no longer an afterthought—they're an aesthetic experience.
Why Are Picnics So Popular Right Now?
According to the Smithsonian, picnics are making a comeback. More people are opting for intimate, outdoor meals over traditional restaurant outings. From taking advantage of warm mornings by sipping coffee at my doorstep to eating ice cream at the beach with an audiobook on a summer evening, the modern picnic is about comfort, style, and experience.
Picnics have taken a major upgrade from the ant-infested memories I have from childhood. They have been given a picturesque makeover. Think charcuterie boards accompanied by wine and plush cushions with a spread of flowers.
A chic picnic is hands down one of the easiest get-togethers to host. All you need is a game plan so that your friends know what to expect.
How to Plan a Fail-Proof Chic Picnic in 2025
Choose the perfect picnic location and time
Location is everything. You should find an area where you can enjoy the rays of the sun but also find refuge in the shade if it gets too warm.
The best picnic locations would be the beach, a local public park, an open field, a botanical garden, or even your own backyard.
There is no such thing as a bad time of day to host a picnic. Some of the best times for a picnic would be a morning brunch with mimosas, an afternoon hangout with finger foods, or an evening soiree with twinkle lights, s’mores, and cocktails.
✅ Pro Tip: I highly recommend you check the weather beforehand. It is important to make sure the weather will be clear, comfortable, and beautiful for your picnic. The last thing you need is soggy grass because it rained the night before–trust me, I’ve been there.
Picnic essentials to create a chic vibe
Blankets are key for picnic comfort and aesthetics. I use picnic blankets designed for the outdoors as the material is spill-proof (in case of accidents).
I like to bring outdoor cushions or floor pillows for each person to sit on. These pillows create a chic and cozy vibe for your picnic. They also serve as a comfortable spot to sit or lie down.
My favorite accessory for a picnic is a bold and beautiful arrangement of flowers. A variety of brightly colored blooms makes a big statement on the picnic blanket.
Bring a Bluetooth speaker for some background music. Put on a curated Spotify playlist to match the setting and overall vibe of your picnic.
Not sure what to do during a picnic? I say make things interesting with optional activities. Have everyone bring a bottle of wine for wine tasting, play a game of Uno, or bring some art supplies for painting. Ensure that your chosen activity aligns with your local park’s rules and regulations.
Plan the ultimate picnic menu
When planning your picnic menu, choose delicious dishes that are easy to put together and clean up. I always opt for shareable plates and finger foods. They tend to be the best food to take on a picnic. Choose one of these simple picnic food ideas, create your grocery list of foods, and head to the market.
Charcuterie Board: Charcuterie is always a great way to win over a crowd. I plate a selection of meats, cheeses, and fruit such as berries and grapes. I also adorn the board with crackers, chocolate, and small snacks–like nuts and olives.
Pasta Salad: Pasta salad is easy to prepare and goes with just about everything at a picnic. I toss together pasta, diced tomato, onion, and cucumber. I finish it with feta and a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
Caprese Skewers: These skewers are clutch. They’re easy to put together and refreshingly delicious. My favorite version incorporates cantaloupe, prosciutto, basil, mozzarella, and a drizzle of spicy honey.
✅ Pro Tip: Stick to shareable, no-mess finger foods.
Keep your drinks light and refreshing for hot summer days. I add seasonal flair to a classic lemonade by adding fresh strawberries.
Are you celebrating happy hour? You can’t go wrong with sangria, mojitos, or Aperol spritz. You can craft these cocktails ahead of time and prep them at the picnic.
You’re not feeling boozy? There are plenty of mocktail options to choose from that are great for a picnic with friends. Pick up a few bottles or cans of your favorite alcohol-free drink. Give these a try: Mingle Mocktails, Ritual Alcohol Alternatives, and Wilfred’s Non-Alcoholic Aperitif.
Practice Mindfulness
After putting in the work to set up a beautiful meal outdoors, I do my best to be present and take in the moment. I am big on practicing mindfulness, especially outdoors. I use my senses to keep me in the present.
Paying attention to the little details turns a simple meal into a meaningful experience. Take note of how the summer sun and breeze feel on your skin. Listen to the sounds of birds chirping or your friends laughing around you. Finally, savor the taste and textures of the food you are eating.
