In the age of social media, picnicking has become a never ending trend. Its earliest popularity dates back to 19th century Europe, but it has been reinterpreted at various points throughout history.
Taking to the outdoors is a common occurrence globally, but especially in Hawaiʻi. For those who grew up in the state, going to the beach and having a BBQ is a popular way to have family gatherings.
Roselyn Owens-Barnes, a resident and avid picnic goer, shared her experiences.
“It brought me back to my childhood where my family would go to the beach or the park, play, and eat,” said Owens-Barnes. “A couple of days a week, me and my daughter, for her school, go to the beach with all the other families.”
From Earth Day to birthdays, friends are taking advantage of planning picnics based on a range of themes inspired by social media, with the most recent being Galentine’s Day.
Mercy Seiuli celebrated with friends with various heart shaped treats, roses, and, what she calls a must for them, painting.
“We recently did a Galentines theme in February and we ate it up,” said Seiuli. “We do our picnics based on the holiday in that month, so for April it’d be Easter.”
Alternatively, some incorporate a picnic when planning a solo day.
“No need shame to go have a picnic by yourself, it’s such a simple thing to do,” said Owens-Barnes. “Just grab a blanket, grab a book, and find a shady spot under a tree.”
If the weather doesn’t allow for a venture into the outdoors, an at-home picnic serves just as well for an opportunity to make memories, picnic goers say.
