Well, I learned something new again this week.........I learned that this is International Picnic Week. Yes! Who knew?
Apparently, it began about 10 years ago in Britain and is now a national holiday in some countries. So, this happens to be the week to begin summer picnicking, if you haven't already begun..........June 11 - June 19th and Saturday, June 18, is International Picnic Day.......and it is celebrated on the same day every year.
So, when did picnicking actually begin? It's believed to have begun after the French Revolution and according to http://www.wincalendar.com/International-Picnic-Day, it was most likely started when the Royal Gardens were opened to the public for the first time for the French to visit and bring along their own food. It was popularized during the Victorian era as a way for the very wealthy to dine and socialize informally without the restrictions of formality and etiquette.
What picnicking was like then......usually in a park or open space.
Picnicking today is a whole new production. The British even recommend places to picnic such as the moors, or the beach, or national parks. But, the best bet is to keep it simple and picnic wherever you are.......it could be your own backyard!
Apparently, it began about 10 years ago in Britain and is now a national holiday in some countries. So, this happens to be the week to begin summer picnicking, if you haven't already begun..........June 11 - June 19th and Saturday, June 18, is International Picnic Day.......and it is celebrated on the same day every year.
So, when did picnicking actually begin? It's believed to have begun after the French Revolution and according to http://www.wincalendar.com/International-Picnic-Day, it was most likely started when the Royal Gardens were opened to the public for the first time for the French to visit and bring along their own food. It was popularized during the Victorian era as a way for the very wealthy to dine and socialize informally without the restrictions of formality and etiquette.
What picnicking was like then......usually in a park or open space.
Veranda
Indulgy
Indulgy
Indulgy
Indulgy
Indulgy
Indulgy
Indulgy
Indulgy
Indulgy
How about a tailgate picnic?
Indulgy
Indulgy
Or a boat!
And don't forget that Father's Day is this weekend!
Another excuse to picnic!!
Cath Kidston Picnic Basket
(My favorite!)
Cath Kidston Picnic Blanket
Emma Bridgewaater Picnic Blanket
Laura Ashley Picnic Blanket
As usual with any subject, the picnic ideas were endless! Where to stop? There were food ideas, beverages, places to go, games to play and endless shopping for such beautiful picnic baskets, blankets and supplies. I ran out of time on this one! But, in Canada and the U.S., check out Wayfair, Victorian Trading Co., Amazon, etc. for picnic supplies.
I can assure you that putting this post together was a 'picnic'!
Happy picnicking and happy Father's Day to all the dads out there!
I love picnics!! Thanks for the history and all the wonderful picnic pictures.
ReplyDeleteMy pleasure, Laurie! Thanks for letting me know you enjoyed this post!
DeleteGreat and inspiring pics if the temps weren't so hot now. ;-)
ReplyDeleteAnd we need sunshine and heat - it's been a very chilly spring here with yesterday's temp at only 11 degrees celsius - or 51 degrees fahrenheit.......and it's the same today! Have barely seen the sun for weeks! Glad you like the pics, though!
DeleteThe photos drew me in and brought back some wonderful old memories; which, is something I LOVE to do. All of the items are delightful, the Laura Ashley picnic blanket is divine! Thanks for always sharing so many magnificent things with us each day.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous pictures! Too hot for a picnic now...can't stop a gal from dreaming tho...
ReplyDelete