How to Plan a Labor Day Picnic

The Labor Day weekend conjures up images of barbecues and beach parties. However, many people don't have the chance (or the energy) to go through the whole preparation required for such an undertaking. If that's your case, a picnic could be the solution. Head to a local park, sit down near the river or look for picnic facilities at a local playground or state park.

Things You'll Need

• Games
• Serving tools (silverware and/or plastic ware)
• Cooler
• Snacks or finger foods
• Trash bags and paper towels
• Napkins

Instructions

Plan a Labor Day Picnic

1. Don't stress over the preparations. Make it easy on yourself by buying pre-made food or putting together simple snacks and drinks. Since it's Labor Day, try to honor yourself by working as little as possible.

2. Choose a park that offers grills, picnic tables and outdoor fires for a chance to make your own barbecue.

3. Find out if alcohol is allowed in the area. Many public parks do not allow open alcohol containers, which may influence your drink selection.

4. Add some juicy watermelon to the mix. Watermelon has traditionally been a Labor Day staple. For the grownups in the group, you may look into buying watermelon-based drinks, some of which contain alcohol.

5. Bring lawn games, like cricket or bocce ball, or simple activities, such as a deck of cards, so everybody can find something to do. If you don't want to spend money on games, plan your own entertainment by resorting to the classics, like an egg on spoon race.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your pet along if the park allows dogs.

• If you're inviting friends and family to the picnic, plan in advance and ask them to bring a dish. This will take the pressure off you when it comes to cooking and will allow everyone to participate. Ask guests to keep it simple: cheese and crackers over potato salad. Make sure you got all bases covered: snacks, main menu and dessert.

• Find out if you need to make reservations at the local park. During busy weekends, many campgrounds and state parks allow visitors in only with a guest pass.

• Select foods that will keep fresh for a long time once they're out of the cooler, especially if the weather is hot that weekend. Also, plan foods that are easy to pack and transport. For example, it may be better to bring tuna salad and bread separately and then let everybody make their own sandwich at the picnic area.