A Magical Picnic Experience

Unique picnic ideas for adults

  1. Charcuterie boardWine, cheese and charcuterie: Find a lovely spot, spread out your blanket or set up your portable table and fill  it with delicious artisan bread and cheeses, a delectable charcuterie board and paired with reds, whites, roses or sparkling wines!
  2.  An authentic Italian picnic
  3.  A classic French picnic
  4. Cocktails/Mocktails in the park: What could be better than a cocktail-mocktail picnic in a beautiful place on a lovely day? Here are some unique finger food ideas:
    1. Chicken and bacon ranch meatballs
    2. Mini prawn cocktail pappadums
    3. Spicy chickpea and nut mix
    4. And more- click on finger food link above.
  5. And some delicious cocktail/mocktail ideas:
    1. “Watermelon Sangria
    2. Sweet Lime–Ginger Rum Punch
    3. Tequila-Watermelon Aguas Frescas with Prosecco”
    4. “Summer cup mocktail: fruity mocktail featuring red berries, lemonade, mint, and cucumber.
    5. Homemade ginger beer”
    6. And more- see links above.

Portage Lake Beach

When we think of a picnic, the idea often conjures up images of Mary Poppins with Bert and the kids in their magical picnic park!

Picnics are so uniquely American and represent lovely experiences with family and friends. Why go for a picnic? Here are some benefits:

  • A time to get away, enjoy some fresh air and nature, and bond with family and friends… priceless!
  • Reduce stress: being outside with friends and family allows us to relax and appreciate the important things in life.
  • Eat some delicious food and try new food experiences!

Some fun picnic ideas for kids

  • Storybook picnic“Storybook picnic: Transform your picnic into a magical scene from a beloved children’s book. This theme allows kids to immerse themselves in their favorite story, with foods and decorations inspired by the narrative. 
  • Serenity on Flagstaff Lake
    Serenity on Flagstaff Lake
    Nature explorer’s lunch: Combine the picnic with a nature exploration. Prepare easy-to-carry, fuss-free foods like trail mix, wraps, and fruit, encouraging kids to engage with their natural environment while eating.
  • Pirate adventure picnic: Transform your picnic into a swashbuckling adventure. Use a treasure map as an invitation, and hide snacks in a treasure chest.
  • Jungle safari picnic: Set up a jungle-themed picnic with animal print tablecloths and paper plates. Include snacks like “jungle trail mix” and animal-shaped sandwiches. A scavenger hunt for stuffed animals can add to the excitement.
  • Fairytale forest picnic: Turn your picnic into a fairytale adventure. Decorate with flowers and fairy lights, and include whimsical foods like “magic wand,” fruit skewers, and “fairy” cupcakes.”

From: https://picnicmakers.com/blog/kids-picnic-food-and-theme-ideas/  

Fun Facts about picnics

Fun Facts

  • “The word “picnic” comes from the French word pique-nique.
  • Picnics may have originated in medieval times, but the modern concept emerged in the 18th century.
  • The French are credited with popularizing picnics, which became popular after royal parks were opened to the public in 1789.
  • The average person has at least three picnics a year, totaling 94 million picnics annually.
  • The most popular day for picnics in the US is July 4, but in Italy it’s Easter Monday, and in France it’s Bastille Day.
  • The longest picnic table is 1,336 ft 2 in (407.27 m).
  • The Pic-Nic Society was a London theatrical club founded in 1802 where members brought their own food contributions to meetings.
  • Spending time outside can improve mood, reduce stress, and help with digestion.
  • Picnics on a sunny day can also help with vitamin D and calcium absorption, which can help build strong bones and teeth.”

Restaurant Alternatives

Some nice picnic locations in Fort Fairfield

Riverside Pavilion: This lovely spot along the Aroostook river is perfect for a picnic with its picnics tables, grills and nice playground! It is located at the corner of Route 1A and North Caribou Road. 

Monson Pond: Near the Fort Fairfield Frontier Fish and Game Club, 550 Dorsey Rd, Fort Fairfield, ME 04742 This lovely 150-acre lake is a wonderful picnic spot.  It has public access near the Fort Fairfield Frontier Fish and Game Club with a boat landing and spots great for swimming and fishing.

Packing Checklist

The weather in Maine can be unpredictable. Therefore, here are some ideas to be prepared. Wear comfortable clothes and dress in layers, Maine is very casual, so you probably will not find any restaurants that require formal attire.

 

Spring/Summer/Fall: clothes, comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes for walking, sun hat, sunscreen, sweater or jacket, insect repellent, toiletries, and phone/camera

Winter: clothes (layers), ski pants highly recommended, winter boots, jacket, hats, scarves, gloves, warm socks, toiletries, and phone/camera. Please pack a helmet if you are participating in snowmobiling, skiing, or snowboarding.

Hotel Alternatives

Activity Alternatives