How My Neighborhood Has A Picnic

One of the things I love about the neighborhood where I live is that we go all out for social events. And that includes picnics!

The community looks forward to this event in late spring every year and turns out in droves to relax, socialize, and listen to great music in the cool spring air.

After spending more time indoors than we prefer over the winter months, this shindig gives us an excuse (as if we needed one) to stretch out and have a party!

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Part of a planned community, the picnic is held in a jewel of a park which features a huge pond which is well stocked with fish (and a couple alligators), walking trails with plaques describing the details of life in the area from days gone by, spectacular live oak trees and still occasionally blooming azaleas, and a super cool playground with a pirate theme.

We can't help but celebrate the arrival of warmer weather in a setting like this!

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This is always billed as a Concert in the Park, so no concert is complete without a great band. Prior years' acts include the local city symphony orchestra and more local bands with more of an orchestral feel.

I remember the first year we lived here, laying back on the simple blanket spread out on the newly awakening grass, gazing up as the stars came out and listening to classical music. There were even fireworks that first year and they were timed to match the last song! Have you ever seen anything like that just a short bike ride from your house?

Everyone should have the opportunity to experience an event like this!

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As part of the Concert In The Park, area residents are encouraged to design a spread that combines a theme with the food that they bring. This is where I see how innovative my neighbors can be. Really elaborate settings are created to represent themes such as Main Street USA, a ping pong league, and even a Duck Dynasty motif this year complete with facial hair!

The preparation for these can take hours, and some people start getting ready the night before! Several families will pool their resources to really take these spreads to the next level. Have you ever done something like this at one of your family picnics?

Judging for these sets is held with prizes being awarded in several categories, but I think the real reward is the right to brag among the community through all the other events for the coming year!

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No, this is one of the residents of the lake, an alligator. I have seen as many as 4 in this particular lake on any single visit. But don't worry, they don't like attention and didn't make an appearance at the picnic. I took this picture on an earlier date when there weren't nearly as many people around.

Local vendors support the event as well. The kids particularly like the ice cream, italian ice, and kettle corn vendors.

Among others, I also spotted this Rewined display this year. These are really cool and a popular local vendor. Not to mention handy at the picnic once the sun goes down!

Click Here for Rewined Recycled Wine Bottle 60-80 Hour Soy Wax Candle - Pinot Noir

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