The Ultimate Guide to Catering for Outdoor Gatherings and Picnics with EFS Catering!

Welcome to the ultimate guide to planning an unforgettable outdoor gathering or picnic with EFS Catering! Whether you're hosting a family reunion, company picnic, or casual get-together with friends, we've got you covered with everything you need to know to make your event a success.

1. Choose the Perfect Location: When planning an outdoor gathering or picnic, the location is key. Look for a scenic spot with ample space for seating, games, and activities. Parks, beaches, and backyard gardens are all great options for enjoying the great outdoors.

• Jacksonville Beach: Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf at Jacksonville Beach, where you can set up your picnic blankets right on the sand and listen to the sound of the waves.

• Riverside Park: Nestled along the St. Johns River, Riverside Park offers picturesque views and plenty of green space for picnicking and outdoor activities.

• Hemming Park: Located in the heart of downtown Jacksonville, Hemming Park is a vibrant urban oasis perfect for hosting outdoor gatherings with food trucks, live music, and events.

• Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park: This sprawling park features miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as scenic picnic areas and a beautiful beach perfect for outdoor gatherings.

2. Plan Your Menu: A delicious menu is essential for any outdoor gathering. Opt for dishes that are easy to transport and enjoy alfresco. Consider crowd-pleasers like our Pan Seared Tuscan Salmon with Parmesan Cream and Sundried Tomatoes or our Pesto Gnocchi tossed with Zucchini, Pesto, and Tomatoes for a taste of summer.

3. Pack Essentials: Don't forget to pack essential items like sunscreen, bug spray, blankets or picnic mats, and trash bags to keep your outdoor space clean and comfortable for guests.

4. Stay Hydrated: Keep your guests hydrated with plenty of refreshing beverages. Offer a variety of options including water, iced tea, lemonade, and fruit-infused waters to quench their thirst on a hot day.

5. Bring on the Entertainment: Keep guests entertained with a variety of games and activities. Set up lawn games like cornhole, bocce ball, or frisbee for some friendly competition, or bring along a Bluetooth speaker for some background music.

6. Don't Forget Dessert: No outdoor gathering or picnic is complete without something sweet to end the meal. Treat your guests to our Mini Dessert Cups featuring an assortment of delicacies, including Chocolate Fudge Cake, Southern Carrot, Florida Key Lime, and Tiramisu for a sweet ending to your event.

And don't forget our signature cheesecakes:

• Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake Topped with Caramel Banana Glaze

• Crème Brulee Cheesecake with Whipped Fresh Cream and Cocoa Powder

• Pumpkin Cheesecake (seasonal) Served with Whipped Cream and Cinnamon Sugar

• Irish Cream Cheesecake Garnished with Chocolate Glaze and Whipped Cream

• Caramel Sea Salt Cheesecake with Toffee Sea Salt Caramel Glaze

• Decadent New York Cheesecake with Fresh Strawberries

7. Prepare for the Weather: Be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way by checking the weather forecast ahead of time. Bring along umbrellas or pop-up tents for shade, and have a backup plan in case of rain.

8. Consider Dietary Restrictions: Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or allergies your guests may have when planning your menu. Offer a variety of options including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes to accommodate everyone's needs.

9. Keep it Eco-Friendly: Reduce your environmental impact by using eco-friendly servingware and utensils. Opt for compostable or biodegradable options whenever possible, and encourage guests to bring their own reusable water bottles and containers.

10. Enjoy Every Moment: Most importantly, don't forget to relax and enjoy the company of your guests. Take time to savor the delicious food, soak up the sunshine, and create lasting memories with those you love.

With these tips and tricks, you're ready to plan the ultimate outdoor gathering or picnic with EFS Catering. Contact us today to start planning your event, and let us take care of the details while you enjoy the fun in the sun!

For more information and to explore our full menu of catering options, visit www.efscatering.com/our-menu. Let's make your outdoor event one to remember!