How the World Dines Outdoors
Have you ever wondered how a simple picnic could transport you to different corners of the world without even leaving your local park? Grab your picnic blanket and a sense of adventure, we’re about to take a virtual journey through some of the world’s most enchanting outdoor dining traditions. From the cherry blossom-filled parks of Japan to the sun-soaked beaches of New Zealand, each picnic tradition tells a unique story of culture, community, and the universal joy of sharing a meal under open skies.
Japan: Hanami Under the Cherry Blossoms
Our first stop is Japan, where every spring, cherry blossoms transform the landscape into a sea of pink and white. Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is a centuries-old tradition where families and friends gather beneath these beautiful trees, sharing food, drink, and the fleeting beauty of the blossoms. Bento boxes filled with seasonal delicacies like sushi, tempura, and delicate sweets accompany the celebration, making each bite as much a part of the experience as the stunning blossoms overhead.
Credit: TokyoTreat
France: Chic Picnics by the Seine
Next, we find ourselves in Paris, where picnics by the Seine are as effortlessly stylish as the city itself. Picture a checkered blanket, a spread of crusty baguettes, a selection of cheeses, and a bottle of wine, all set against the romantic backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. For Parisians, picnics aren’t just meals; they’re mini-masterpieces of food, friends, and the famed French joie de vivre. Every detail, from the basket to the bouquet of flowers, is part of the experience.
Credit: Everyday Parisian
India: A Colourful Feast in the Park
Now, let’s take a trip to India, where picnics are vibrant feasts of colour, flavour, and family. Families gather in lush gardens or by serene lakes, sharing an array of homemade dishes like curries, biryanis, and sweets. Food isn’t just sustenance here; it’s a celebration of tradition and community. With colourful blankets, lively conversation, and aromatic spices wafting through the air, an Indian picnic is an experience as rich as the culture itself.
People picnic in a Mughal garden in Nishat, on the outskirts of Srinagar, in 2007. Credit: Fayaz Kabli/Reuters.
Argentina: Asados in the Countryside
Venturing to South America, we arrive in Argentina, where the picnic takes on a heartier form: the asado. Picture a group of friends and family gathered in the rolling Pampas, a large barbecue grill sizzling with all kinds of meats. An asado is less of a meal and more of a ritual, one that embodies the Argentine spirit of camaraderie and a passion for good food, enjoyed under the wide-open sky.
Credit: passthecarne
United States: Classic BBQs and Potlucks
In the United States, picnics reflect the country’s diverse culinary landscape. From southern barbecue cookouts to seaside clam bakes, American picnics are as varied as the nation itself. Potluck gatherings bring people together with a smorgasbord of dishes, each family or friend contributing their own specialty. These outdoor feasts celebrate community and are often accompanied by classic games, laughter, and a sense of togetherness that’s as essential as the food itself.
Credit: Thriver Blog
New Zealand: Beach Barbecues and Maori Hangi
Our journey continues to the picturesque beaches of New Zealand, where Kiwis gather for beach barbecues or even a traditional Maori hangi. Imagine the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop, fresh seafood on the grill, and a hangi, a feast cooked underground with hot stones. It’s a celebration of nature, connection, and cultural heritage, blending modern beach vibes with ancient Maori traditions.
Credit: msvolendam
Morocco: Tagine Picnics in the Atlas Mountains
Finally, we find ourselves in the stunning Atlas Mountains of Morocco, where picnics are feasts for the senses. Families gather to enjoy slow-cooked tagines, stews filled with rich spices, vegetables, and meats, served with freshly baked bread. With breathtaking mountain views, a Moroccan picnic is more than a meal; it’s an invitation to embrace the warmth of Moroccan hospitality and the rugged beauty of nature.
Credit: Barbara Cameron Pix
Join the Picnic
This journey reminds us that a picnic is so much more than eating outdoors, it’s about experiencing cultures, traditions, and the joy of gathering with loved ones. So, whether you’re inspired to add a French twist to your next picnic or recreate a Moroccan tagine, remember that picnicking connects us all through food, nature, and shared experiences.
Have you ever stumbled upon a picnic spot with a fascinating history, or perhaps you have a unique family tradition? I’d love to hear your stories! Share your own global picnic experiences in the comments below, and let’s keep the spirit of international picnicking alive, one meal at a time.
Love Gemma xx
Picnics are a charmingly simple pleasure, yet they come with their own unwritten rulebook, one that ensures everyone enjoys the occasion, rather than dashing back to the car as soon as the ants arrive.