The unofficial start to the summer season wouldn't be complete without some quality time spent outdoors with friends, family, and good food. 

A picnic is a great way to celebrate this patriotic holiday while enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. But, before you go rushing off to grab your blanket and basket, let us give you some tips to help make your Memorial Day picnic a success. You don't want to forget anything, especially the sunscreen! 

So, grab yourself a drink, sit back, and read on to discover how to plan the ultimate Memorial Day picnic.

1. Choose the Perfect Spot 

Choosing the perfect spot is like finding a needle in a haystack, but don't worry because we've got your back! 

If you're heading to a local park, make sure to get there early to snag a spot under a shade tree — this will be your picnic paradise. If you're feeling adventurous and fancy a beach picnic, then be prepared for some sand in your sandwich! But don't let it worry you, because the cool breeze and ocean view will make up for it. 

And if you want to keep it simple, your backyard can be the perfect spot with its convenience and tranquility. Just make sure to choose a spacious area that accommodates everyone! 

So, wherever you decide to go, make sure it's a location that's perfect for enjoying the sunshine, good food, and quality time with friends and family.

2. Make a Menu That Everyone Will Love

Now, let's talk about the most exciting part of picnics — the food! Because let's face it, we're all here for the snacks. When it comes to planning your Memorial Day menu, you want to make sure that there's something for everyone to enjoy. From the classic PB&J sandwiches to refreshing fruit kebabs, you'll want to create a spread that is easy to transport and serve outside.

If you're planning on grilling, don't forget the essentials like burgers, hot dogs, and veggie options for your non-meat-eating friends. And let's not forget about the sweet treats — patriotic cupcakes or s'mores are sure to be a hit. But before you get too excited about the menu, make sure to double-check with your guests on any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that outdoor eating can lead to a few unwelcome guests, so make sure to seal up any food containers tightly. And, pack plenty of hand sanitizer or wipes for easy clean-up.

With a little bit of planning and creativity, your Memorial Day picnic spread will be nothing short of amazing. Now, who's hungry?

3. Don't Forget the Drinks

Hold up, don't forget about the drinks! There's nothing like a refreshing beverage that can complement your food and amp up your picnic experience. 

Let's be realistic; water is a must for any outdoor activity. But, why not mix things up a bit with some tasty fruit juices or soda? Want to get a little creative? Bring along some flavored syrups or try making some delicious lemonade or iced tea. 

Of course, if you're planning a picnic with your adult friends, some beer, wine, or premixed cocktails in travel mugs can make things a little more interesting (responsibly, of course!). Just make sure to pack enough drinks for everyone, and don't forget the ice to keep them chilled. 

Overall, your Memorial Day picnic is sure to be a hit with these refreshing drink options!

4. Bring Some Entertaining Activities

A picnic without some fun activities is like a sandwich without the bread — it's just not satisfying. You want your Memorial Day picnic to be an all-out celebration under the sun! So, what can you do to liven things up? 

First off, don't be that person who forgets the games. Bring some outdoor-friendly games like frisbee, cornhole, or even volleyball if you have the space. And if you're worried about competitive family members getting a little too heated, throw in a deck of cards for some friendly competition. 

Secondly, don't forget about the tunes! You don't want to be sitting in silence, except for the sound of utensils clanking against plates. Bring along your own music player and get everybody grooving. But for Memorial Day, let's show some national pride by adding in some patriotic tunes. 

Finally, why not bring along some extra fun activities? Kites, bubbles, or even a scavenger hunt can add a little something extra to the usual picnic setting. Your guests will thank you for taking their usual boring Memorial Day up a few notches. 

Just remember to keep it simple and fun. You don't want to spend your whole day setting up games and activities, but you also don't want everyone to fall asleep from boredom. Let's make it a picnic to remember!

5. Set Up a Comfortable Seating Arrangement

Comfort is key when it comes to enjoying a perfect Memorial Day picnic with your loved ones. Don't make the mistake of bringing in your back-breaking, uncomfortable folding chairs or sitting on a hard surface — that's a recipe for an unpleasant experience. So, let's get those blankets, inflatable mattresses, pillows, and cushions out of storage. You can also opt for portable chairs that provide ample support for your back and neck. 

But hold on, before you pack up your seating essentials, remember to bring along a tablecloth, plates, utensils, napkins, knives, a cutting board, and a bottle opener. 

It's also important to consider the weather conditions. Since Memorial Day is well into the official start of summer, it's bound to get hot. You don't want to be sweating like a sinner in church during your picnic, so consider bringing along some fans, umbrellas, or even setting up your picnic under a tree's shade. This will provide an excellent spot to people-watch from, too. Remember, a picnic is supposed to be fun, so ensure you create a conducive and comfortable environment for all.

Conclusion

And there you have it, a Memorial Day picnic that is sure to impress your friends and family. The key to a successful picnic is to keep things simple, plan ahead, and have fun. 

With these tips, you're all set to enjoy the perfect Memorial Day picnic. Now, get out there, soak up some sun, and celebrate the start of summer in style!