With summer in full swing, what better way to celebrate than by living it up in the great outdoors? Check out some of our favorite tips and tricks for enjoying the perfect summer picnic, and get outside to enjoy the beautiful weather while it lasts!
- Choose the Perfect Location
When it comes to a picnic, you can host one practically anywhere. Heck, you could even have one in your backyard if you wanted! That being said, there’s plenty of beautiful locations to explore in and around Rochester. Some of our favorite spots include Highland Park, Ontario Beach Park, and Mendon Ponds Park. All of these destinations have something unique to offer, whether it’s beautiful greenery or a sandy beach. There’s no shame in having a picnic at the park down the road, but don’t forget to do your homework and check out some of the more unique spots in the area if you want to make it really special.
- Keep it Simple
Even if you’re serving a larger crowd, don’t be afraid to keep it simple. Paper plates and plastic utensils are the way to go for an easy cleanup, and forget the bulky coolers if you can. Some of the best places to set up might be a ways into the park, and you don’t want to miss out because you didn’t feel like huffing your bags all the way there. Bring coolers that are easy to carry or that you can at least divide and conquer.
- Don’t Forget the Hots
For goodness sake, don’t forget the hots! Did you know that we actually have a Pop Open Picnic Pack? With three red and three white hots, it doesn’t get much better than that. Who said you had to choose just one?
- Make it Fun
The picnic doesn’t have to end when you’re done eating. Think ahead and grab things like bluetooth speakers, portable board games, and more to keep the fun going. We all know the warm weather won’t last forever, so you’ll want to enjoy it while it’s here!
Disclaimer: Another reason why it’s a good idea to bring your own entertainment is to prevent any dangerous activities from occuring. Many of the gorges and waterfalls in the area are marked as unsafe to climb, so make sure you read all the signs before adventuring. It’s totally okay to opt for another round of Kan Jam if you’re not in an area that’s safe to swim or explore.
- Be Prepared
We all know how quickly the weather can turn in Rochester, so make sure you check the forecast before venturing out. If it’s predicted to stay sunny, make sure you pack a nice picnic blanket, sunscreen, and even bug spray. It’s okay if you don’t end up using them, but you don’t want to hike all the way to the middle of the park to discover that you don’t have what you need.
