National Picnic Day

Families wearing colorful summer outfits having a delightful picnic on a sunny meadow, surrounded by playful butterflies and blooming flowers.. — National picnic day illustration

Hey there, Internet wanderer, have you ever stopped to consider the magnitude of the Great Outdoors? Well, it seems like a good chunk of the world wide web makes a point out of it each year on National Picnic Day! And boy, did they make a fuss on April 23rd, 2018. Our internet detectives picked up a staggering 5498 mentions - that’s definitely a lot of sandwiches, wouldn't you say?

When is Picnic Day?

It's national picnic day on the 23rd April.

Overview

So what happens when the virtual world decides to unplug and enjoy a hard-earned sandwich in the park? TL;DR - The internet loves National Picnic Day. Ever tried deciphering what thousands of picnic lovers were saying online about this day? It's not exactly a walk in the park, until now!

Prime Picnic Day: April 23, 2018

If you're interested in Internet etymology (which is absolutely a real thing), you'll note that National Picnic Day reached its peak popularity on April 23, 2018. This day saw a digital picnic basket brimming with almost 5500 mentions of National Picnic Day. We suspect this was due to an unseasonably high pigeon population, however, our researchers are still tracking this anomaly.

Why all the Picnic Praise?

Well, it's simple. Picnicking combines some of humanity's favorite things: food, friends, and the freedom to lounge on a rather comfortable blanket in the sun. Isn’t it surprising that the inventors of the internet remembered they could go outside?

How to Join the Fun

Want to join the fun next time? It’s simple: Grab your favorite snacks, find a beautiful spot outdoors (backyards totally count), and enjoy! While you're at it, don't forget to join the digital conversation using '#NationalPicnicDay' because, after all, if it didn't happen on social media, did it even really happen?

History behind the term 'Picnic'

1300s

The Origins

The term 'picnic' can be traced back to the 1300s when it was first used in France. It originally referred to a gathering where everyone brought their own food. The word 'picnic' is derived from the French word 'pique-nique', which means 'to pick at food'. In these early picnic gatherings, people would bring a variety of dishes and share them with each other.

1800s

The Evolution in England

In the 1800s, the concept of picnics gained popularity in England. It became a beloved social activity, especially among the upper class. Picnics were seen as an opportunity for people to socialize, enjoy the outdoors, and showcase their lavish spreads of food. It was during this time that picnics became associated with leisure and pleasure, a way to escape the formalities of traditional dining.

1861

Picnic Baskets

In 1861, the first documented use of the term 'picnic basket' appeared in Harper's Bazaar magazine. Picnic baskets became essential for transporting food, utensils, and other necessary items for a successful picnic. These baskets were often beautifully crafted and became a symbol of the picnic experience. They were designed to carry not only food but also small luxuries such as crystal glasses, fine silverware, and delicate linens.

1900s

Picnics in Popular Culture

Picnics became deeply ingrained in popular culture during the 1900s. They were frequently depicted in literature, art, and films, embodying a sense of joy, romance, and nostalgia. Famous painters like Claude Monet captured scenes of picnics in their artwork, immortalizing the charm and beauty associated with outdoor gatherings. Picnics also found their way into songs, such as the iconic picnic scene in the musical 'Guys and Dolls.'

Today

Modern Picnics

Today, picnics continue to be a beloved activity worldwide. They have evolved to be more casual and inclusive, with people from all walks of life enjoying the experience. Picnics are no longer limited to elaborate spreads; they can range from simple gatherings with friends to themed picnics and community events. Whether in parks, gardens, or beaches, picnics remain a delightful way to connect with nature, unwind, and share a meal with loved ones.

Did you know?

Did you know that the 'Picnic' in National Picnic Day is derived from the French word 'pique-nique', which means a meal eaten outdoors? Ah, those French, always finding a way to make everything sound 'trés chic'.