Almost everyone can look back at their childhood and remember the fun, summer activities that shaped them into adults. Picnicking is probably on that list of memories –the fond thoughts of eating your favorite foods at a great outdoor location may entice you to want to create the same memories for your own children, family and friends.

But, instead of just throwing some food in a picnic basket and heading out the door to any old place, why not make your picnic the best it can be? With some pre-picnic planning, your friends and family will be sure to remember their picnic experience with glee.

Fun picnic themes

There are several ways to throw a great picnic. Depending on your mood, access to outdoor locations and family schedule, why not choose one of the following picnic themes?

Beach Party Picnic

Do you live in an area where there is a beach just moments away? Or maybe in just a few hours, you can be at a beach? Well, then a beach picnic may be just up your alley.

When we think about the beach, we usually think about volleyball, Frisbee, swimming, sandcastles and bonfires. So, why not base your beach picnic on just those things?

First, locate your beach. You will need to know a few things about it. Do they have permanent volleyball nets? Do they allow bonfires? Do they have picnic tables or pavilions that can be reserved? Figuring that out will be an essential part of your planning.

If they do have areas that need reserving, do it at least a month in advance. Purchase a volleyball net if they don’t already have one, or if you want one specifically for your group. If they do allow bonfires or have fire pits, be sure to put firewood, lighter fluid and a lighter on your list of things you will need.

Next, decide on your guest list. Is your beach picnic only open to your immediate family, or would you like friends to attend too? Write down exactly who you plan on inviting.

Then, before contacting everyone about the party, plan a menu. Fruit salad in a pineapple or watermelon boat, a large pre-cooked ham, surfboard shaped finger sandwiches, volleyball net or beach towel cookies, tropical punch and water are all great beach party food and beverages. Be sure to pack all perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice – you don’t want your food to be inedible due to spoiling.

Next, decide what activities will take place at the picnic – a volleyball tournament, a sandcastle building contest and Frisbee tournament are great for both adults and kids. To give the kids even more activities, bring a stick and have them do the limbo, play “hot coconut” or “hot pineapple” – bring a whole coconut or pineapple and play it as you were playing hot potato or do a sand burying race – see who can bury a person fastest in the sand. Be sure to award the winner with something fun – a new Frisbee or beach ball, colored sun block, a new beach towel or something beach themed.

Once you have the menu and activities figured out, it is time to invite guests. If they can attend, ask them to bring enough beverages for their family, as well as a side dish. Tell them to get creative and bring something beach party themed to add to the fun. And also ask them to bring two prizes for the different activities.

At the end of your beach party picnic, light a fire and roast marshmallows or make smores – the perfect ending to any picnic.