Today, June 18, is International Picnic Day. The word “picnic” originally comes from French. It is said that this sort of social gathering became popular after the French Revolution. During the Victorian era, picnics were quite elaborate with lineups of well-prepared food, where young men and women met on important occasions.
Nowadays, picnics have become a more casual way of hanging out with friends.
Don’t forget to check our list of the best picnic spots in Vancouver, where you can just relax and enjoy outdoor snacks.
Stanley Park
There’s no way to start this list without mentioning this iconic park in downtown Vancouver!
Vancouver’s largest (and most beloved by Vancouverites*) urban park contains multiple picnic areas which are close to park attractions and activities and feature some beautiful vistas.
There are also designated picnic sites with kitchen facilities, access to water and electricity in case you are planning a big picnic party.**
Granville Island
Granville Island is a beautiful getaway oasis and a picnic paradise. The best part is that you don’t really need to do anything special to organize a picnic day. Just head to the famous Public Market to pick up some fruit and sandwiches and you are all set. Find the best spot under the sun and enjoy the moment.
Queen Elizabeth Park
If you are a nature lover, this place is for you. The Bloedel Conservatory is an indoor tropical garden in Queen Elizabeth Park, where you can see exotic birds, tropical forests and flowers.
Don’t forget your camera, as you will truly enjoy taking snapshots of your little jungle adventure, as well as at the city’s highest point (at 152 meters above sea level) that opens up to spectacular views of the park, city and mountains on the North Shore.
Crab Park
Crab Park offers everything you expect from a park. It’s huge, easily accessible, and has lots of green, off-leash dog runs, sports facilities and a beach. It is an ideal destination for all picnickers!
You can either bring your friends and enjoy a thriving gathering or grab your lunch and a notebook to enjoy a refreshing break from your busy schedule.
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
The renowned Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden offers a great opportunity to explore the deep cultural and classic charm of China. Have a sip of Chinese tea while viewing the pond, beautifully covered with water lilies, and your mind will wander to the Far East, or maybe even to the Ming Dynasty-era.
*Vancouverites – residents of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
**Attention!
Most of the picnic spots in public parks in Vancouver are available on a first-come, first-served basis, as long as your group is less than 50 people and not using a designated picnic site (which includes picnic facilities like shelters, kitchen, access to water and electricity, and more). A picnic permit is required if your group is more than 50 people, or wants to use the designated picnic site.
For more details go to www.vancouver.ca
Ai Watanabe
