Creative Picnic Ideas for Cold Weather

Don't shut yourself indoors just because it's cold out - winter provides endless possibilities for creative outdoor fun. Just keep yourself warm with some delicious food and beverages by centering your traditional outdoor activities around a fun cold weather picnic.

Treat the kids to some hot cocoa in a winter wonderland. Sledding, making snowmen, having snowball fights, and ice skating are winter traditions beloved by children and adults alike. Fill thermoses with hot potato soup, creamy macaroni and cheese, chili, baked beans or other kid-friendly meals that will help warm them up after their fun in the snow.

Use that 'magical' holiday spirit to enliven a romantic picnic date. Falling snowflakes, colorful holiday decorations and twinkling lights will set the backdrop for you - all you'll need to do is plan a meal to remember. It's easier than it sounds - check out our previous posting, 'Planning a Romantic Picnic for Two' for details. To customize it for winter, consider having your meal over an open fire with some hot cider or mulled wine. Planning the meal around a special winter activity, such as horseback riding or a 'sleigh ride' through the park, will make it even more memorable.

Surprise your family or spouse with a picnic in your living room, complete with a cozy picnic blanket and beautiful picnic basket. You can make it feel like summer for the day, turning up the heat and arranging houseplants around your picnic blanket. With some candles, music and a bottle of champagne you can instantly turn it into a romantic experience.

If you live in an area that has a mild climate year-round, you're in luck. Chances are, every day will be a great picnic day this winter. The same great picnic activities that are recommended for spring, summer and fall can be enjoyed throughout the winter.