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

In Japan, outdoor dining reaches peak perfection during hanami season, when cherry blossoms (sakura) blanket the parks and gardens in delicate pink blooms. Hanami translates to “flower viewing”, but it’s about more than just admiring the blossoms — it’s about gathering with friends and family, spreading out a blanket, and savouring life’s fleeting beauty.

The Japanese bring bento boxes filled with treats like onigiri (rice balls), sushi, and seasonal sweets, accompanied by sake or green tea. It’s a tradition that feels utterly romantic — a reminder to slow down, appreciate nature, and find joy in simple pleasures.

Want to embrace a little hanami magic at your next picnic? Even if cherry blossoms aren’t in bloom, you can pack a Japanese-inspired picnic basket filled with homemade sushi rolls and flasks of green tea for a unique alfresco experience.

Credit: TokyoTreat

Italy: Vineyard Picnics in Tuscany

When it comes to dining outdoors, Italy does it with style — and a good glass of wine. In Tuscany, you’ll find vineyard picnics where guests gather under olive trees or in the shade of rolling hills, feasting on fresh bread, local cheeses, and prosciutto, washed down with a bottle of Chianti.

Italians believe that meals are meant to be savoured, and what better place to do that than in the Tuscan countryside? There’s something timeless about sitting under the sun, surrounded by grapevines, with the scent of rosemary and cypress trees in the air.

France: Pique-Niques by the River

Of course, we can’t talk about outdoor dining without mentioning France, the home of the “pique-nique.” In Paris, locals gather along the banks of the Seine with baguettes, cheeses, and bottles of wine, turning even the simplest meal into a chic affair.

The French have a way of making every moment feel special, and their love of outdoor dining is no exception. A pique-nique isn’t rushed or fussy — it’s about enjoying good food, good company, and a beautiful setting.

Credit: Everyday Parisian

India: Picnics by the Rivers and Spice-Filled Feasts

In India, outdoor dining has long been a way to celebrate festivals, family gatherings, and the natural beauty of its diverse landscapes. While the concept of picnics may differ slightly from Western traditions, spending time outdoors with delicious food is very much a part of Indian culture.

Families often head to riverbanks, forests, or temple courtyards, bringing along spice-laden dishes like biryani, pakoras, and chutneys packed into steel tiffin boxes. It’s a sensory experience — the rich aroma of spices mingles with the scent of earth and flowers, and the sound of laughter competes with the rustle of trees.

For larger celebrations, such as festivals, outdoor feasts take on a grander scale, with clay ovens (tandoors) fired up for fresh naan breadand kebabs, all enjoyed under the shade of trees or along the Ganges River.

People picnic in a Mughal garden in Nishat, on the outskirts of Srinagar, in 2007. Credit: Fayaz Kabli/Reuters.

Norway: Matpakke in the Fjords

In Norway, outdoor dining is less about elaborate spreads and more about practicality and tradition. The matpakke (literally “packed lunch”) is a staple of Norwegian culture — a simple sandwich wrapped in greaseproof paper, often enjoyed during a hike through the fjords.

But don’t be fooled by its simplicity. The Norwegians have mastered the art of finding joy in nature, and there’s something beautiful about pausing mid-hike, sitting on a rocky outcrop, and sharing a meal while taking in the view.

Argentina: Asados under the Stars

In Argentina, outdoor dining is synonymous with the asado — a traditional barbecue that’s as much about the ritual as it is about the food. Argentinians gather in backyards, countryside fields, or even along riverbanks, with grills loaded with beef, chorizo, and provoleta (grilled provolone cheese).

What makes the asado special is its communal spirit. The asador (grill master) takes great pride in preparing the meal, cooking over an open flame or charcoal embers, while friends and family share mate (a traditional tea) and lively conversation. The pace is leisurely — it’s about savouring every bite, every laugh, and every moment spent together.

The best part? Asados often extend into the evening, with meals enjoyed under a blanket of stars, accompanied by a glass of Malbec and the sounds of nature. It’s an alfresco tradition that embodies connection, flavour, and Argentinian hospitality.

Credit: passthecarne

Australia: Beachside Barbecues

For Australians, outdoor dining often means beachside barbecues. The tradition of “barbie on the beach” is an iconic part of Aussie culture, where friends and family gather to grill fresh seafood, sausages, and veggie skewers, all while the waves crash in the background.

It’s casual, fun, and full of life — a perfect example of turning a meal into an occasion.

Duchess’s Tip: You don’t need to be in Sydney to enjoy an Aussie-style picnic. Pack grilled goodies, bring a portable barbecue, and head to your nearest beach or park. Don’t forget the Esky (cooler box) and a cricket set for a bit of outdoor fun.

United States: Tailgate Picnics and Backyard Gatherings

In the United States, outdoor dining often comes with a side of community spirit and a splash of patriotism. From tailgate parties at football games to Fourth of July barbecues, Americans know how to turn an outdoor meal into a celebration.

The tailgate picnic is a unique tradition where cars, trucks, and grills line the parking lots of sports stadiums. Here, friends and families share burgers, hot dogs, and potato salad while cheering on their favorite teams. It’s alfresco dining with a competitive edge — and maybe a touch of barbecue sauce on the jersey.

Backyard picnics and barbecues are another classic American pastime. Picture red-and-white checkered tablecloths, iced tea in mason jars, and platters of fried chicken, corn on the cob, and watermelon. These gatherings are casual, lively, and all about good food and great company.

Duchess’s Tip: Channel the spirit of an American backyard picnic by packing fried chicken, cornbread, and coleslaw, and don’t forget a pitcher of homemade lemonade. Add a frisbee or a friendly game of cornhole to complete the experience.

Want to host your own tailgate picnic? Check out my guide: “Tailgating 101: A Playful Spin on the American Picnic Tradition.

Credit: Thriver Blog

New Zealand: Picnics with a Kiwi Twist

In New Zealand, picnics often take place in some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. From beaches with turquoise waters to lush forests and snow-capped mountains, the Kiwi picnic is as much about the view as it is about the food.

A typical Kiwi picnic includes sausage rolls, pavlova, and a good old-fashioned meat pie, alongside fresh seasonal fruits like kiwifruit and feijoas. Families often pack chilly bins (coolers) with cheese, crackers, and Lamingtons, heading out for a hike or a paddle before settling down to eat.

In summer, fish and chips on the beach is a quintessential New Zealand tradition, complete with the sound of waves crashing and the occasional hungry seagull trying to steal a chip.

Credit: msvolendam

Morocco: Tea in the Desert and Medina Picnics

In Morocco, outdoor dining is infused with vibrant flavors, rich traditions, and the scent of spices drifting through the air. Whether it’s a meal in the Sahara Desert or a casual feast in a medina courtyard, Moroccan picnics are a feast for the senses.

The heart of any Moroccan meal is mint tea, served ceremoniously in ornate silver teapots and poured into delicate glasses. The food is just as spectacular, with dishes like tagines, flatbreads, and olives often packed for outdoor gatherings. In rural areas, families may enjoy a picnic under the shade of olive trees, with baskets of couscous, roasted vegetables, and harira (a rich soup).

For a truly magical experience, picture dining alfresco in the Sahara Desert, with cushions and low tables set up on the sand, surrounded by lanterns and the glow of a setting sun.

Duchess’s Tip: Add a bit of Moroccan magic to your picnic with homemade flatbreads, spiced chickpea salad, and a thermos of sweet mint tea. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it on a low table with cushions for seating.

Credit: Barbara Cameron Pix

Join the Picnic

No matter where you are in the world, dining outside is about more than just food. It’s about connection — to nature, to loved ones, and to the moment. It’s about slowing down, savouring the season, and making memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone.

At The Piknic Club, we’re bringing a little global inspiration to every picnic basket, with curated collections and seasonal traditions to help you elevate your alfresco experience. Because, really — life’s too short to eat indoors all the time.

So, whether you’re dreaming of Tuscany, Tokyo, or the nearest park, let’s make every picnic feel like a little slice of the world.

Love Gemma xx

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