Summer time is probably the most regaled season to have a fabulous picnic. It has all the desired elements – long sunny days, cool drinks, and cute dresses. It’s the season we most equate with alfresco entertaining and frolicking in the park with friends enjoying summer picnics. That said, I’m going to opine that the autumn season is probably one of best times to have a fabulous fall picnic. How can you go wrong when you’re surrounded by the crisp autumn air and beautiful colorful foliage. In the fall, you can still find pockets of gorgeous weather. Moreover, experiencing a bout of Indian summer is not unusual and I like to take advantage of those days where possible.
Also, the best thing is that there are fewer bugs, you are less apt to be annoyed by pesky mosquitoes. That alone is a great idea to have a perfect fall picnic in the great outdoors.
A Scenic Picnic Location
Normally in the fall choosing a great spot only enhances the overall vibe of your fabulous fall picnic. The best thing about being outdoors is that you have the most beautiful backdrop at your disposable and for free. I like to pick a clean picturesque spot that showcases the vibrant fall colors of that time of year. Parks, lakesides, botanical gardens, or even your own backyard can be great options. I really like to pick a local park that has a special feature such as a beautiful bridge and river. This is especially nice because it’s interesting to watch the boats and ferries sail by. Some parks even have covered pavilions you can use for your picnic.
In New York, there are parks that have lakes where you can take a rowboat out well into the fall season. Many parks offer carriage rides, rickshaws, and movie nights. These are great added bonuses and a fun way to add a special element to your outing while enjoying fresh air.
Another great location would be a local farm. At this time of year, pumpkin patches are great fun. Local farms tends to have great harvest season activities like a corn maze or hayride. This would be a great choice for a late summer outing. Pick a great spot under a canopy of a tree and colorful leaves to surround yourself in the fall atmosphere.
Fall Inspired Picnic Decor
Go ahead and use the rich hues of fall foliage in the theme of your picnic. Since the lush green landscaping will start to give way to gorgeous shades of burnt oranges, auburn, and crimson red. You have perfect palettes right at your-finger tips. Incorporate decorations and colors in your table design, such as pillows, cozy picnic blanket, table ware, glassware. In addition, use the bounty of the season such as pumpkins, gourds, figs, grapes, blood oranges, and pomegranates in your overall design. Seasonal floral arrangements or dried floral bouquets can add just the right touch. Some fall flowers you can considers in your fall arrangements are chrysanthemums, pansies, sunflowers, anemone, aster, and hydrangeas.
Make your area extra comfortable by piling up the warm blankets and adding large pillows in every corner. Throw blankets are especially nice if they are plush and fuzzy. This will add warmth to the overall look. If you’re having a backyard fabulous fall picnic, this is the perfect time to add string lights. This added touch will only enhance the atmosphere with a warm glow from the twinkling lights.
Fun Entertainment and Picnic Games
If you’re having a group of friends, having a fun ice breaker is always great to have on hand as people arrive. Conversation cards, heart shaped sunnies, Jenga, Uno, Scrabble, and Badminton are all engaging games. Having these on hand is a great way to enhance your best picnic experience. Some other outdoor activities to keep folks entertained include:
- A friendly game of frisbee.
- A scavenger hunt
- Music playing from a portable speaker
- Polaroid camera photo session
- Setting up a cozy spot for board games or card games
Fall Inspired Picnic Menu
To play up to the season use some of autumn bounty to elevate your fabulous fall picnic. In your menu using bountiful charcuterie boards laden with cured meats, nuts and cheese, spiced donuts can add to coziness. Don’t be afraid to hit up your local deli or gourmet market for sandwiches and desserts. Easy handheld yummy foods are ideal. The point is to have fun not to sweat it out in a hot kitchen.
As for drinks, you might bring along a thermos with hot drinks such as coffee or hot chocolate to warm you in the cool air. Another option for the cooler weather that would carry well would be a warm soup. Also, warm drinks like apple cider, flavored sparkling juice, mulled wine, or even red wine if you’re feeling fancy.
Picnic Essentials Checklist
- blankets
- pillows
- water & paper towels, napkins
- plates & bowls
- cutlery
- serving utensils
- cups
- wine glasses
- bottle opener
- paring knife
- damp wipes or cloths for washing up
- garbage bags
- hand santizer
- bug spray
- disinfecting wipes
Final Tips to Ensure a Great Time For A Fabulous Fall Picnic
Note, before picking the best time, consult the weather forecast and be prepared for cooler temps. Pack layers, including jackets and sweaters. Armed with these fun ideas, you can create a memorable and fabulous fall picnic that celebrates the beauty of the season. Go ahead, grab your picnic tables, a picnic basket full of goodies and spend some quality time with family and friends at your next fall picnic. This is an extensive list and can seem a bit overwhelming and requiring much effort. To make things easier you can engage the services of a picnic service such Petite Fete Table. This event planning company will deliver your beautiful picnic without you having to lift a finger.
