Whether it's a small gathering of your immediate family or a large family reunion, planning a picnic takes time, organization and a keen eye for detail. If you're in charge of the food at the next family picnic, there are things you can do to make sure it goes off without a hitch and everyone goes home with a full stomach.
Step 1
Get specific details about the number of people coming, the location and any other details of the picnic. Depending on the number of people and the location, you may have to plan different types or amounts of food.
Step 2
Determine what type of food service you're going to have. If you're going buffet style and will provide all the food, you'll have to make different plans than if it's going to be potluck and you'll just be providing a main dish or beverages and dessert.
Step 3
Come up with a reasonable portion size for each person---for example, two hot dogs or one hamburger per person---and multiply that by the number of people attending. Do the same for side dishes, drinks and desserts.
Step 4
Plan how you're going to transport and cook the food. If you have steaks that must be grilled, you'll either need to be at a park with barbecues or bring your own grill. For salads that need to stay cold, you'll have to plan to have enough coolers and ice to transport them all.
Step 5
Make a detailed list of each item you'll be serving and how much you'll need in order to feed everyone. Price out the cost for all the items and compare it to your budget for the picnic. If you need to, scale back on the amount of food or come up with less-expensive options if you end up over budget.
Step 6
Plan separate or special dishes for anyone in the family with allergies or special dietary needs such as a gluten-free diet.
