A few years ago, professional picnic organizer Cheryl Vandervalk orchestrated a surprise proposal picnic that was nearly thwarted by an approaching tornado. “I cannot put into words how wild it was,” said the Cambridge, Ont.-based founder of Rustic Rendezvous Luxury Picnics and Events. “We got the emergency alert on our phones as we were setting up!”
In the nick of time, the storm passed, the picnic was a success and the happy couple even got some post-storm sunny photos.
While there’s no controlling the weather for a Toronto spring or summer picnic, picnic organizing pros are founts of wisdom on how to pull off a successful outdoor dining experience with some advance planning, strategic shopping and a sunny disposition.
For Vandervalk, a perfect picnic is equal parts comfort and esthetics. The comfort part means considering what seating options are available at your choice of location (are there picnic tables or will you be setting up on a patch of grass?) and planning accordingly, bringing low seating or cushions. Think about shade as well; Vandervalk suggests a sun umbrella or pop-up tent.
“Comfort is key,” agreed Leanna Harvey, founder of Toronto’s The Picnic Experience. “Bring things that make you want to lounge: soft pillows, cosy blankets and even a small side table or TV tray to keep things elevated — literally.”
When it comes to esthetics, Vandervalk recommends levelling up from the basics wherever you can. For instance, adding decorative florals makes a big difference to a blanketscape. “Flowers always set a mood, and artificial flowers work, too,” she said. Music is important: “We provide a cute mini Bluetooth speaker that looks like a radio.” And she recommends upgrading the paper-towel roll to chic cloth napkins.
Bringing reusable rather than disposable items is a win-win. “Try going eco-friendly — cloth napkins, glassware and reusable plates instantly make it feel more luxe,” said Sarah Christensen, the Cayuga-Haldimand, Ont.-based founder of Once Upon a Picnic.
Christensen feels the key to a perfect picnic is a “cosy, thoughtful setup that feels special without being overwhelming.” To help with the latter, it’s all about strategic prep. You know when you throw everything into a suitcase for a last-minute trip and can’t seem to find a thing when you get there? The same principle applies to picnic planning. “Pack smart. Use baskets or bins to keep things organized,” Christensen said.
Another way to keep things running smoothly is becoming obsessed with the weather conditions. “Wind and weather definitely play a big role in our business,” Christensen said. It’s smart to have a contingency plan for surprise rain: She brings pop-up tents for drizzle and places tarps underneath blankets to prevent moisture from seeping through.
This also means being ready for wind, so your entire setup doesn’t blow away. “Weight and double-sided tape are your friends!” said Vandervalk. “I use weighted tablecloth clips, anchor decor with florals or trays, use double-sided tape for candles, and I avoid anything flimsy like paper plates.”
When it comes to the menu, skip food and drink that will spoil outdoors in the heat. “Avoid anything too melty, gooey or that spoils quickly,” said Vandervalk. Christensen avoids serving anything that needs to be cut on-site. “It’s much easier, and more enjoyable, to serve pre-sliced, bite-sized options that guests can grab,” she said. All the pros recommended fresh fruit, which could be served on skewers, charcuterie or grazing boards, crusty breads, small sandwiches and light pastries or baked goods that hold up well outside — foods Christensen describes as “delicious, portable and picnic-friendly.”
For Harvey, greasy or overly messy foods stay inside. “They’re difficult to manage outdoors and they make cleanup a hassle.”
Speaking of cleanup, all three picnic experts agree on some non-negotiable supplies you need to have on hand: A garbage bag, wet wipes, bug spray, sunscreen and a portable speaker. Pro tip: toss a tiny bottle of lavender oil in your picnic basket. “I use lavender drops around the outside circumference of the picnic set up,” said Vandervalk. “This keeps bees away and mosquitos, plus the scent is relaxing.”
6 hidden-hem picnic locations
Pondering where to roll out your oversized blanket and plop down your cooler for a delightful picnic? Pro picnic planners agree that it’s best to steer clear of overcrowded popular parks like Trinity Bellwoods that are hellish for finding proximate parking and venture just beyond to find an urban idyll. Here are their top spots.
For unbeatable views
Location: Harbour Square Park, 25 Queens Quay W., Toronto
Washrooms: Yes
Parking: Paid options nearby (street and parking garages)
This waterfront spot is a “tranquil urban oasis for a relaxing picnic,” said Sarah Christensen, founder of Once Upon a Picnic. It’s complete with shaded areas, a picturesque boardwalk overlooking Lake Ontario and views of the Toronto skyline and harbour, just a short walk from Union Station. “It’s a convenient escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.”
For sandy beaches
Location: Marie Curtis Park, 2 Forty Second St., Etobicoke
Washrooms: Yes
Parking: Three free parking lots on-site
You don’t have to venture far out of the downtown core to arrive at a sprawling park with expansive grassy spaces and a public swimming beach. “There’s always a quiet corner to set up a private picnic,” said Leanna Harvey, founder of The Picnic Experience, who’s a fan of the big willow trees that provide ample shade. Plus, “the park’s diverse habitats, including wetlands and meadows, support a rich array of wildlife, making it a fascinating spot for nature observation and photography.”
For waterfront proximity
Location: Little Norway Park, 659 Queens Quay West, Toronto
Washrooms: Yes
Parking: Paid Green P parking across the street
“It’s a really lovely space near the waterfront,” said Harvey of the downtown park that boasts a large open green space surrounded by trees, a view of the CN Tower and short walk to the water. If you like your picnic with a side of sports, there’s a ball diamond, and you can take an after-picnic stroll through several garden walking paths. If you’ll have little ones in tow, the park has a wading pool and playground.
For plenty of shade and seating options
Location: Meadowvale Conservation Area, 1081 Old Derry Rd., Mississauga
Washrooms: Yes
Parking: One free parking lot on-site
“Nestled along the Credit River, this park features wide open fields, shady picnic spots and winding trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty,” said Christensen. It has tons of facilities for comfy outdoor dining, including picnic tables, BBQ pits and shelters for larger gatherings that you can reserve in advance.
For a taste of Europe
Location: Scarborough Bluffs — Cudia Park 70 Meadowcliffe Dr., Scarborough
Washrooms: No
Parking: One free parking lot on-site
“The views here are absolutely breathtaking, and it feels more like a European coastline than a Toronto park,” said Amy Burstyn Fritz, co-founder of Canadian tableware brand Misette. Cudia Park sits atop the Scarborough Bluffs and offers awe-inspiring views of the cliffs and Lake Ontario. It’s also generally less busy than nearby Bluffer’s Park. “There’s something so special about picnicking on the cliffs with a linen tablecloth fluttering in the breeze,” said Burstyn Fritz. “It’s the perfect backdrop for creating a romantic or elevated tablescape moment.”
For beautifully landscaped gardens
Location: James Gardens, 99 Edenbridge Dr., Etobicoke
Washrooms: Yes
Parking: One free parking lot on-site
“Think High Park — but quieter,” said Harvey, who calls the park’s pristine gardens, mature trees and large grassy areas “romantic and serene.” This is a great spot for a picnic date or a family gathering; the picturesque surroundings are just begging for a group photo. (Pack a tripod!) “There’s also good shade and free parking, making it easy to access.”
