Spring is the perfect time for a family picnic, with warmer weather, blooming flowers, and the great outdoors inviting everyone to get out and explore. You can head to a local park, beach, or national garden—there are endless ways to enjoy a spring day out with the family.
Here are some ideas to make your next picnic unforgettable!
Choosing the right location can make all the difference. Whether your family enjoys relaxing by a serene lake, playing on the sandy beach, or exploring lush gardens, there are plenty of spots to suit everyone. Coastal areas provide a combination of beach fun and picnic opportunities, so there’s no shortage of beautiful spots to set up your blanket. Parks with playgrounds are always a hit with younger children, while botanical gardens offer the perfect setting for nature lovers. Look in the play section of the latest LestGoKids book for park ideas!
To keep it interesting, you can try a new location each time, transforming your family picnic into an adventure. Discover hidden corners of your favourite park or explore an area you haven’t visited before. The change of scenery will make the picnic feel fresh and exciting for the whole family.
Spring is all about light, fresh flavours, so pack a delicious array of seasonal foods that everyone will enjoy. Fresh fruit like berries, watermelon, and grapes are perfect for a sunny picnic. Simple sandwiches, wraps, and homemade rolls are easy to make and transport. For a fun twist, try packing DIY sandwich or wrap kits so that everyone can build their own lunch at the picnic.
Don’t forget easy snacks like cheese and crackers, veggie sticks with dip, and homemade muffins or cookies. For dessert, fruit skewers or mini tarts with fresh fruit fillings will add a sweet ending to the meal. If you want to add something special, why not bring along some spring-inspired lemonade or fruit-infused water for a refreshing treat?
To keep the kids entertained, bring along some simple outdoor games and activities. A frisbee, football, or cricket set is perfect for getting the whole family involved. If you’re near an open space, flying a kite can be great fun, especially with the light spring breezes. Younger children can enjoy a bubble-blowing session or a nature-themed scavenger hunt, where they can search for different flowers, insects, and birds.
You can also bring along some quieter activities like colouring books, sketchpads, or even a nature journal where kids can record what they see during their day out. These activities can be great for winding down after lunch while still keeping everyone engaged.
A family picnic is the perfect excuse to explore the beauty of nature. Take a walk through the park’s gardens or along a coastal path and see what treasures you can find. Spring brings new life to nature, and you might spot blooming flowers, butterflies, or even some local wildlife along the way. Many parks and gardens have educational trails that provide an opportunity to learn about the local environment while having fun as a family.
If you’re near water, like a river or lake, take time to explore the shoreline, skip stones, or simply enjoy the peaceful view. A walk before or after the picnic is a great way to burn off some energy and make the day even more memorable.
To ensure everyone has a comfortable day out, remember to bring along some picnic essentials. A large picnic blanket, sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are must-haves for a spring outing. If the weather is unpredictable, packing a light jacket or blanket will keep everyone cosy if the breeze picks up. A portable cooler can help keep your food and drinks fresh, and eco-friendly reusable cutlery and plates can make the picnic feel even more organised.
Having a small first-aid kit on hand is always a good idea, especially when adventuring outdoors with kids. It’s these little preparations that can make a big difference to the overall comfort of the day.