August 31 – National Eat Outside Day

National Eat Outside Day is Today!

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HOW TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL EAT OUTSIDE DAY STEP-BY-STEP

•  Pack a picnic and head out to your favorite nature spot.
•  Purchase picnic supplies.
•  Host an outdoor party.
•  Don’t forget outdoor pizza.  Recipes here.
•   If you love the article image, purchase it on these fun products on Zazzle!

FEATURED ITEM FOR NATIONAL EAT OUTSIDE DAY

There’s something about eating outdoors that just feels right. Maybe it’s the fresh air, or the fact that you’re surrounded by nature. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that there’s a certain joy to be found in enjoying a meal al fresco. Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind if you’re going to dine in the great outdoors.

First of all, make sure to choose a spot that’s away from any potential sources of pollution, such as busy roads or factories. Secondly, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and make sure you’re not disturbing any wildlife. And finally, don’t forget to pack up all your rubbish when you’re finished – we should all do our part to keep our planet clean! With these few simple tips in mind, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy all the pleasures that eating outdoors has to offer.

NATIONAL EAT OUTSIDE DAY:  A BRIEF HISTORY OF PICNICS

Ah, the picnic. A time-honored tradition that conjures up images of idyllic days spent outdoors, surrounded by family and friends. But where did this beloved pastime originate? Surprisingly, the history of picnics is a bit murky. Some believe that the word “picnic” comes from the French pique nique, which originally referred to a fashionable social gathering where each person would bring their own food. Others believe it comes from the German Picknick, which describes a meal eaten in the woods.

However it began, picnicking became popular in eighteenth-century Europe, when it was seen as a fashionable way to enjoy the great outdoors. In America, meanwhile, picnics were often used as a way to political campaigns and other public events. Today, picnicking is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds as a leisurely way to enjoy good food and good company.

100 WAYS TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL EAT OUTSIDE DAY

1. Picnic in the Park: Pack a basket with your favorite foods and head to the nearest park for a relaxing outdoor picnic with friends or family.
2. Backyard BBQ: Fire up the grill and host a backyard barbecue, complete with burgers, hot dogs, and all the fixings for a classic outdoor feast.
3. Beach Bonfire: Gather around a beach bonfire with friends, roast marshmallows, and enjoy a seaside cookout as the sun sets over the horizon.
4. Hiking and Picnic Combo: Embark on a scenic hike and find the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic amidst nature’s beauty, surrounded by breathtaking views.
5. Outdoor Movie Night: Set up a projector in your backyard or local park and host an outdoor movie night under the stars, complete with popcorn and blankets.
6. Fishing and Shore Lunch: Spend the day fishing at your favorite spot and cook up your catch for a delicious shore lunch by the water.
7. Farmers’ Market Visit: Explore your local farmers’ market and pick up fresh produce, artisanal bread, and other goodies for a farm-to-table outdoor meal.
8. Kayaking and Riverside Picnic: Paddle down a tranquil river or lake and stop along the shore for a scenic riverside picnic with your kayak as your dining table.
9. Outdoor Yoga Session: Roll out your yoga mat in a nearby park or garden and enjoy a rejuvenating outdoor yoga session surrounded by nature.
10. Sunset Dinner Cruise: Book a sunset dinner cruise and enjoy a gourmet meal on deck as you cruise along the coastline or a picturesque lake.
11. Garden Party: Host a garden party in your backyard, adorned with twinkling lights and colorful decorations, and dine al fresco amidst blooming flowers and lush greenery.
12. Outdoor Wine Tasting: Visit a local vineyard or winery and partake in an outdoor wine tasting experience, sampling a variety of wines paired with delicious snacks.
13. Campfire Cooking: Camp out in the wilderness and cook meals over an open campfire, from hearty stews to foil-wrapped potatoes and s’mores for dessert.
14. Outdoor Concert or Festival: Attend an outdoor concert or festival and indulge in a variety of food truck delights while enjoying live music and entertainment.
15. Patio Brunch: Set up a charming brunch spread on your patio or balcony, complete with mimosas, pastries, and savory dishes to enjoy in the morning sun.
16. Nature Photography Expedition: Take a nature photography expedition to capture the beauty of the great outdoors, then enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by your stunning snapshots.
17. Stargazing Picnic: Spread out a blanket in a remote location away from city lights and enjoy a stargazing picnic, identifying constellations while nibbling on snacks.
18. Outdoor Cooking Class: Join an outdoor cooking class or workshop where you’ll learn new culinary skills and techniques while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.
19. Trail Running and Snack Break: Lace up your running shoes and hit the trails for an invigorating trail run, pausing for a refreshing snack break amidst scenic vistas.
20. Park Games and Picnic: Organize a day of outdoor games like frisbee, soccer, or volleyball at the park, followed by a picnic lunch to refuel and relax.
21. Botanical Garden Tour and Tea: Explore a local botanical garden and indulge in a leisurely afternoon tea amidst fragrant blooms and verdant landscapes.
22. Outdoor Painting or Sketching Session: Set up your easel or sketchpad in a picturesque outdoor setting and let nature inspire your artistic creations.
23. Food Truck Crawl: Embark on a food truck crawl through your city or town, sampling a variety of delicious street food offerings while dining al fresco.
24. Alfresco Wine and Cheese Tasting: Arrange a wine and cheese tasting outdoors, pairing a selection of wines and cheeses while enjoying the fresh air and scenery.
25. Fruit Picking and Picnic: Visit a local orchard or berry farm for a fun day of fruit picking, then spread out a blanket for a picnic featuring your freshly picked bounty.
26. Mason Jar Lanterns: Create lanterns using mason jars, paint, and tea light candles for charming outdoor lighting.
27. Nature-Inspired Wind Chimes: Craft wind chimes using twigs, beads, and string, incorporating natural elements for a soothing outdoor decoration.
28. Hand-Painted Plant Pots: Decorate plain plant pots with acrylic paints, adding colorful designs to brighten up your outdoor space.
29. DIY Bird Feeders: Make bird feeders using recycled materials like plastic bottles or wooden popsicle sticks, attracting feathered friends to your outdoor area.
30. Stamped Garden Markers: Use wooden stakes and rubber stamps to create decorative garden markers for identifying herbs, flowers, and vegetables.
31. Upcycled Wine Bottle Planters: Turn empty wine bottles into planters by cutting off the tops and adding soil and succulents for stylish outdoor décor.
32. Pressed Flower Coasters: Preserve the beauty of flowers by pressing them between layers of wax paper and cardboard, then encasing them in clear resin to make coasters.
33. Outdoor Tic-Tac-Toe Game: Paint rocks as Xs and Os and create a game board using a wooden slab or cardboard for a fun outdoor game.
34. DIY Hammock: Make your own hammock using sturdy fabric and rope, perfect for lounging and relaxing in your outdoor oasis.
35. Macramé Plant Hangers: Learn macramé techniques to craft stylish plant hangers, suspending pots of greenery from your patio or porch.
36. Sunprint Art: Create sunprint art by placing objects like leaves or flowers on sun-sensitive paper and exposing them to sunlight, resulting in unique outdoor artwork.
37. Outdoor Candle Holders: Fashion candle holders using recycled tin cans, adding patterns or designs with hammer and nails for a whimsical outdoor ambiance.
38. Garden Fairy Houses: Construct charming fairy houses using twigs, moss, and other natural materials, inviting imaginary creatures to inhabit your garden.
39. DIY Wind Spinners: Make wind spinners using aluminum cans or CDs, decorating them with paint or adhesive decals to add movement and color to your outdoor space.
40. Rock Painting: Paint rocks with vibrant colors and designs, then scatter them throughout your garden or along pathways for a touch of whimsy.
41. Outdoor Dreamcatchers: Craft dreamcatchers using embroidery hoops, twine, and feathers, hanging them outdoors to catch dreams and add bohemian flair.
42. Seashell Wind Chimes: Collect seashells and string them together with beads and fishing line to create delightful wind chimes reminiscent of the ocean breeze.
43. DIY Solar Lanterns: Assemble solar-powered lanterns using mason jars and solar garden lights, illuminating your outdoor space with eco-friendly ambiance.
44. Outdoor Wall Art: Paint or stencil designs onto weather-resistant wood or canvas to create striking wall art for your patio or garden.
45. Outdoor Herb Garden: Build a vertical herb garden using wooden pallets or hanging shoe organizers, planting herbs for fresh flavors right outside your kitchen.
46. Terrariums: Design terrariums using glass containers, succulents, and decorative stones, bringing a touch of greenery indoors and outdoors.
47. DIY Birdhouses: Construct birdhouses using reclaimed wood or craft sticks, providing shelter for feathered friends while adding rustic charm to your outdoor space.
48. Outdoor Watercolor Painting: Set up an outdoor easel and paint landscape scenes or floral motifs using watercolors, capturing the beauty of nature.
49. Recycled Tire Planters: Repurpose old tires by painting them and turning them into planters for flowers or vegetables, adding a playful touch to your garden.
50. Outdoor Mosaic Stepping Stones: Create mosaic stepping stones using broken tiles or glass, arranging them into colorful patterns to embellish your garden path.
51. Lawn Twister: Set up a giant Twister game using colored circles painted on the grass for a lively outdoor twist on the classic game.
52. Outdoor Scavenger Hunt: Organize a scavenger hunt in your backyard or local park, hiding clues and treasures for players to find and enjoy.
53. Picnic Blanket Bingo: Play a game of Bingo using items commonly found on picnic blankets, such as sandwiches, fruit, and utensils, for a fun and interactive outdoor activity.
54. Sack Race: Hold a traditional sack race where participants hop in potato sacks toward the finish line, adding a dose of nostalgic fun to your outdoor festivities.
55. Giant Jenga: Build a giant Jenga tower using oversized wooden blocks and take turns removing blocks without toppling the tower, providing hours of outdoor entertainment for all ages.
56. Outdoor Pictionary: Set up an easel and large drawing pad outdoors, and take turns drawing and guessing words or phrases in this classic game of artistic communication.
57. Water Balloon Toss: Divide into teams and toss water balloons back and forth, trying to keep them intact as long as possible without bursting, perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
58. Capture the Flag: Organize a game of Capture the Flag in a large outdoor space, dividing into teams and strategizing to capture the opposing team’s flag while protecting your own.
59. Ring Toss: Set up a ring toss game using bottles or pegs and rings, challenging players to aim and toss their rings onto the targets for points.
60. Cornhole Tournament: Arrange a friendly Cornhole tournament with teams competing to toss bean bags into the opposing team’s board cutout, scoring points with each successful toss.
61. Outdoor Movie Trivia: Host a trivia game based on outdoor movies, testing participants’ knowledge of classic films set in the great outdoors.
62. Outdoor Charades: Play a game of charades outdoors, acting out words or phrases without speaking, and challenging your friends and family to guess correctly.
63. Balloon Dart Board: Create a dart board using balloons filled with paint or water, and take turns throwing darts to pop the balloons and reveal the colorful splatter.
64. Three-Legged Race: Pair up with a partner and race against other teams in a classic three-legged race, coordinating your movements to reach the finish line first.
65. Outdoor Obstacle Course: Design an outdoor obstacle course with challenges like hurdles, balance beams, and crawling tunnels, and race against the clock to complete the course.
66. Giant Chess or Checkers: Set up a giant chess or checkers board outdoors, using oversized pieces for a larger-than-life game experience.
67. Watermelon Eating Contest: Hold a watermelon eating contest, where participants race to finish slices of juicy watermelon without using their hands, adding a deliciously competitive element to your outdoor celebration.
68. Outdoor Karaoke: Set up a karaoke machine or Bluetooth speaker outdoors and take turns singing your favorite tunes, enjoying music and entertainment in the open air.
69. Duck, Duck, Goose: Gather in a circle and play a spirited game of Duck, Duck, Goose, where players tag each other as they run around the circle, trying to avoid being caught.
70. Glow-in-the-Dark Capture the Flag: Play a nighttime version of Capture the Flag using glow sticks or glow-in-the-dark objects, adding an extra element of excitement to the game.
71. Outdoor Yoga Challenge: Practice yoga outdoors with friends or family, following along with guided poses and sequences for a rejuvenating and refreshing experience.
72. Horseshoes: Set up horseshoe pits and take turns tossing horseshoes toward the stakes, aiming for a ringer or landing closest to the target for points.
73. Outdoor Trivia Challenge: Test your knowledge with an outdoor-themed trivia challenge, covering topics like nature, wildlife, and outdoor activities, to see who can answer the most questions correctly.
74. Tug-of-War: Divide into teams and engage in a friendly tug-of-war competition, using a rope or strong fabric, to see which team has the strength and strategy to emerge victorious.
75. Outdoor Egg and Spoon Race: Balance eggs on spoons and race against opponents to reach the finish line without dropping or breaking the eggs, providing a fun and challenging outdoor activity for all ages.
76. Grilled Veggie Skewers: Thread colorful vegetables onto skewers and grill them to perfection for a flavorful outdoor treat.
77. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Slow-cook tender pulled pork, then pile it onto buns and top with tangy BBQ sauce for a mouthwatering meal.
78. Caprese Salad: Arrange slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves on a platter, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and serve as a refreshing appetizer.
79. Watermelon Feta Salad: Toss cubed watermelon with crumbled feta cheese, mint leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice for a sweet and savory salad.
80. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinate shrimp in garlic, lemon, and herbs, then skewer and grill them for a delightful seafood dish.
81. Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter: Grill ears of corn and slather them with chili lime butter for a zesty twist on a classic summer favorite.
82. Mango Salsa with Tortilla Chips: Dice ripe mangoes, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, then toss with lime juice and serve with crispy tortilla chips for a flavorful snack.
83. Greek Chicken Gyros: Grill seasoned chicken strips and serve them in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce for a taste of the Mediterranean.
84. Cucumber Avocado Rolls: Roll cucumber slices around avocado, cream cheese, and smoked salmon for a light and refreshing appetizer.
85. Barbecue Ribs: Slow-cook ribs until tender, then brush them with smoky barbecue sauce and grill until caramelized for a finger-licking good meal.
86. Pasta Salad with Pesto: Toss cooked pasta with homemade pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and olives for a flavorful pasta salad.
87. Grilled Pineapple Chicken Kabobs: Skewer marinated chicken chunks, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onions, then grill for a sweet and savory meal.
88. Mediterranean Mezze Platter: Arrange hummus, tabbouleh, falafel, olives, and pita bread on a platter for a satisfying and shareable outdoor feast.
89. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with a mixture of rice, ground meat, tomatoes, and spices, then bake until tender and golden brown.
90. Smoked Brisket: Smoke brisket low and slow until it’s tender and flavorful, then slice thinly and serve with your favorite barbecue sauce.
91. Grilled Caesar Salad: Grill romaine lettuce hearts until lightly charred, then drizzle with Caesar dressing and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a unique twist on a classic salad.
92. Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing: Combine a variety of fresh fruits such as berries, melons, and citrus, then toss with a honey lime dressing for a refreshing side dish.
93. Stuffed Mushrooms: Fill mushroom caps with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden and bubbly for a savory appetizer.
94. Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon: Marinate salmon fillets in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grill until flaky and serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
95. Veggie Wraps with Hummus: Spread hummus onto tortillas and fill with sliced vegetables such as cucumbers, bell peppers, and avocado for a healthy and satisfying wrap.
96. Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables: Toss cooked quinoa with roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette for a nutritious and flavorful salad.
97. Chicken Caesar Wraps: Fill tortillas with grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing for a portable and delicious meal.
98. Grilled Portobello Burgers: Marinate portobello mushroom caps in balsamic vinegar and garlic, then grill and serve on buns with your favorite burger toppings.
99. Homemade Pizzas on the Grill: Roll out pizza dough and top with sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then grill until bubbly and crispy for a fun and customizable meal.
100. Strawberry Spinach Salad: Toss baby spinach with sliced strawberries, goat cheese, almonds, and balsamic vinaigrette for a sweet and tangy salad option.

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Do you have any ideas about how to celebrate National Eat Outside Day?  Please share them!