It’s officially picnic season which means it’s time to load up a basket with goodies and head to your local park to chill out with friends. Before you head out, ensure you have all the essentials to have a fun-filled day under the sun.

Bites

First on the agenda is making sure you have the most important aspect covered — food! We’re loving this heirloom tomato salad from Love & Lemons that combines a white bean puree with avocado, basil, lettuce, and of course, tomato. A classic assortment of meats and cheese is always a crowd pleaser and can be elevated with honey, dried fruits, and fun spreads. A common mistake at a picnic is to forget cutlery and napkins so make sure to bring these essentials so you can dig right into your delicious spread.

Sips

Quench your thirst and wash down all the delicious food with a satisfying beverage. This blueberry basil limeade from Food Network will be a refreshing addition to any picnic spread. First you will heat sugar, water, and basil sprigs over medium high heat for five minutes. Next, pour into a pitcher and add lime juice and cold water. Add the blueberries and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least four hours.

Other Essentials

Comfort is key at any picnic and there are a variety of items that are often forgotten that make the experience more enjoyable. First and foremost, make sure you have plenty of sunscreen and insect repellant if it’s needed where you are. Then, bring small trash bags so you can easily dispose of any trash. Stock up on plenty of napkins and consider bringing wet wipes if you’re enjoying any stickier foods.

If you’re not in the mood to get in the car and drive to a local park, spread out in one of the outdoor communal areas at a Lincoln community. To learn more about everything we offer, reach out to a leasing agent today.