Is it only the British who picnic?

Picnics are synonymous with summer, aren’t they?  A great British tradition that many of us have grown up with, they’re filled with happy memories. When we think of the ideal British summer day (of course the sun is out!!), we picture relaxing with family and friends, picnic baskets by our side. It doesn’t have to be an organised, lavish affair either; we just love eating outside when we can!

But have you ever considered countries other than Britain might do the same?!

First, let's take a look at the wonderful picnic’s history.

The word ‘picnic’ comes from the French word ‘pique-nique’. In 17th century France sharing one’s food with others or contributing to a meal became a popular activity, particularly amongst the wealthy.

Though still taken inside, these picnics became more and more elaborate and might involve music and dancing. Gradually, the word spread across Europe and it was only when it reached London that people started to enjoy them outside and they became very popular by the mid-1800’s.  And there we have it – the picnic as we now know it was born!

So who enjoys picnics around the world?

Many countries do – enjoying their own traditions!

• Japan, for instance, celebrates ‘Hanami’ or the beginning of spring, by picnicking under the cherry blossom trees. Futomaki, thick sushi rolls and Cherry Blossom Milk Puddings are particularly enjoyed.
• Australia’s Northern Territory even has a national holiday dedicated to picnics, held on the 1st Monday of August to celebrate its labour history and cultural identity.
• Greece enjoys picnics at the start of Lent. Vegetables, dried legumes and seafood are popular as are playing games and flying kites.
• In Turkey, people make good use of the many parks to picnic, often quite elaborately, and enjoy such foods as stuffed vegetables and grilled meats.
• In Finland, Labour Day, on May 1st, is celebrated by picnic lunches in parks. The May Day Fritter being a particularly popular food.

The list is endless!

The appeal of picnics is unsurprising:

1. They bring people of all ages together.
2. They can be as formal or informal as you like.
3. They’re flexible, fun, delicious and being outdoors is healthy and freeing!

Looking for picnic ideas?

Here at the British Hamper Company we make it easy for you. We have a fantastic range of picnic hampers, to suit all budgets and special diets, perfect for treating yourself or as picnic gift hampers.

They might not contain the Victorian picnic favourites of duck and lobster but our hampers are filled with the most delicious food carefully chosen from some of Britain’s best artisan creators and from world-renowned producers.

Just two from our range:

1. The Best of British Picnic Hamper contains such delights as smoked salmon, organic cheddar, scones and clotted cream, perfect for enjoying at the races, in your local park, at the beach or even in your garden!
2. The Weekend at Home Hamper has an indulgent selection of sweet and savoury treats and fine wines – perfect for picnicking with a little luxury.

Or why not make your own hamper choosing from our wide range of fine products? Check out ‘build your own hamper’.

Our picnic baskets are all beautifully presented in either one of our traditional wicker baskets or one of our smart gift boxes and include a gift card if sending as a gift.

Did you know it’s International Picnic Day on the 18th June? Yep, let’s celebrate the simple pleasures of eating outside!