Backyard picnic trends

What’s trending in backyard picnics in 2024? 

Al fresco dining

According to the Food Industry Executive, there will be a rise in at-home al fresco dining with the increasing costs of going out to eat. Of course, ‘al fresco’ sounds much better than saying, ‘We’re simply eating outside.’ Who doesn’t like to dine outside on a beautiful summer evening? It’s a delightful experience with a much trendier description. We’ll take it!

Long tables & fresh florals

Long tables adorned with freshly cut flowers in various vases remain on trend for carefree yet festive decor for any dinner party. It’s inexpensive, and layering mixed-and-matched linens and dinnerware weaves together beautifully.

The charcuterie

Charcuterie boards still rock the table, and you can serve them in various ways: appetizers, main courses, and desserts. You name it, it’s out there. They are perfect for the center of any table to bring about a conversation over nibbles paired to perfection. The charcuterie is a relaxed but stylish offering.

Themed gatherings

If you’re creative and your besties share similar interests, consider a theme based on favorite shows and places. Maybe you like shows like Emily in Paris, or perhaps you just want to eat like the French? A French or any other theme is a fun and memorable stamp on your gathering. You can add a little dinner table trivia with questions hiding under plates, napkins, etc.

Entertainment 

Yard games like lawn darts, croquet, cornhole, and others are a lively addition and are making a comeback in some cases. These activities bring a little competition to the day or evening and a lot of laughter and fun (hopefully).

Whatever your backyard picnic plans, remember to visit the Saratoga Farmer’s Market to bring the garden to the table with everything locally grown and produced, including meats, bread, cheeses, sweets, fruits, vegetables, drinks, and so much more. The market is the place to bring your backyard picnic to a whole new, on-trend eating experience.

The Saratoga Farmer’s Market is open on Wednesdays from 3- 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at High Rock Park in downtown Saratoga Springs. The Monday market at Clifton Park is open from 2-5 p.m. at the Shenendehowa Methodist Church on Route 146. The Thursday Market at Milton begins Thursday, July 11, through August 29 at the Burgess Kimball Memorial Park from 3-6 p.m.  Find us online at www.saratogafarmersmarket.org, where you can sign up for our weekly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @SaratogaFarmersMarket.