International Picnic Day is on June 18, and we’re using our time to celebrate easily — with a picnic! Picnics have been a staple of most cultures for years and, believe it or not, their popularity can be traced directly to the French Revolution. Our definitions of a picnic might be different, but it’s a great way to bring people together for an enjoyable day.
History of International Picnic Day
For many across the world, picnics are a relaxing change of pace from their daily lives. However, the picnic as we know it today didn’t exist until the French Revolution, as public parks finally became available en masse.
Although the French are credited with the creation of modern picnics, globalization and individual cultures are responsible for their grand popularity. In 2018, 55% of young Americans said having a picnic was their favorite warm-weather activity.
And as the concept of picnics has spread, a myriad of different traditions have arisen in a plethora of different places. There are very few, if any, cultures around the world that do not engage in picnicking in their own way.
Picnics are a wonderful way to get outside and enjoy what your city has to offer you. And after a hike or walk, you’ll be antsy for a nice break and a yummy meal.
International Picnic Day timeline
After the French Revolution, royal parks open to the public for the first time, popularizing picnics.
The concept of picnic spreads to Britain and the rest of the Isles, with an official Picnic Society meeting regularly near the Pantheon in London.
In a protest in favor of German reunification, the Pan-European Picnic takes place along the Hungarian and Austrian border.
On Bastille Day, France successfully organizes a 600-mile long picnic along its coast to celebrate the new millennium.
International Picnic Day FAQs
How do you celebrate International Picnic Day?
The easiest way to celebrate International Picnic Day is self-explanatory: go and have a picnic! All you need is a blanket, some food, and a few friends.
Where is International Picnic Day celebrated?
As an international holiday, the day is celebrated in different ways throughout the world. To put it simply, if your town has a park, then it can celebrate International Picnic Day.
What is the appropriate attire for a picnic?
Picnics are generally outdoors, and your outfit should reflect that. In the U.S., picnics can also be paired with team games. Make sure you find out what’s in store for you before you show up!
How to Celebrate International Picnic Day
Have a picnic!
There’s no easier way to celebrate International Picnic Day than to just have a picnic! Grab a group of close friends and some grub, and you’re well on your way to a great time. Potlucks are great for those who don’t want to cook a lot.
Plan some games
To many, a picnic isn’t complete without some sort of activity to play in-between plates. With something as simple as a frisbee or as elaborate as a scavenger hunt, it’s easy to create lasting memories at any picnic!
Find a new park
What better excuse to explore your city than in search of the perfect picnic place? Chances are there are hidden parks all over your surrounding area that you haven’t had the chance to check out. Maybe you’ll find a new favorite!
Around The World In 80 Picnics
The word itself comes from French
The French were the first to popularize picnicking, which they referred to as ‘pique-niques.’
The British loved picnics
Throughout the early 1800s, an official Picnic Society met regularly near the Pantheon in London.
Cherry blossoms mean one thing in Japan
When the cherry blossoms bloom for a short time across Japan, citizens flock to parks to enjoy the fleeting smells and sights.
Picnics are a Christmas tradition!
In Argentina and other places in the Southern Hemisphere, people use the warm-weathered Christmas time to enjoy picnics.
In Greece, picnics pair with religion
When Greek people begin celebrating Lent, they often gather in parks to eat acceptable foods and fly kites as a group tradition.
Why We Love International Picnic Day
It’s easy to celebrate
Set-up is easy and, best of all, nobody needs to clean up their house the next day. All you need is an open space, some food, and a group of friends.
It brings people together!
Speaking of friends, International Picnic Day is the definition of a social holiday. Gather as many people as you want, stroll to the park, and enjoy your time with them.
You can test your culinary skills.
What kind of holiday is better than one that is centered directly around eating food? It’s a great day to whip out the family recipe book and show your friends the true meaning of culinary art.
International Picnic Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | June 18 | Wednesday |
2026 | June 18 | Thursday |
2027 | June 18 | Friday |
2028 | June 18 | Sunday |
2029 | June 18 | Monday |