Cemetery picnics used to be a common activity in years gone by, but recently they have fallen by the wayside. Perhaps it’s time to revitalize this and make a go of it. If you’re looking to spend some time with friends or take that special someone out for a unique date, this might be the one for you.
Before even starting the process for this, remember to make sure that the person(s) you want to take is okay with going. Not everyone would be up to picnicking in a cemetery as some people may find it disrespectful. But, if they do wish to go, then continue reading!
The first step is to find a cemetery. Your hometown most likely has one. The best location is the one that is not very busy. If your only option is a busier one, try to find a time when not many people are visiting. Also, make sure you are allowed to have a picnic in the cemetery of your choice with whoever owns it. Some cemeteries will allow you to have one, and others won’t. It’s best to check first and save yourself the embarrassment of being kicked out.
Time of day is also important. If you want a more casual time, midday or early afternoon is best, but if you want to go for more of a romantic time, perhaps an hour or so before sunset would be great.
Bring a garbage bag. Leave no trace. A picnic will produce some trash, and it’s most respectful to leave the space you occupy as you found it.
Creating a menu is your next step. Sandwiches are a good choice for the main part of the meal. They are easy to prepare and there are so many different options for you to choose from. Find out what the person(s) you’re bringing like and that is perhaps the best choice. For sides, light finger food is best. Nuts, grapes, pickles, chips, etc… also, I love garlic, I really do, but if this is a date, skip the garlicky foods. For drinks try and find something that pairs with your main part of the meal or just bring whatever everyone enjoys. If you are considering bringing alcoholic beverages, make sure it is first legal in your area and allowed in the cemetery, and to consume responsibly. Pop is more optimal, as it goes well with this type of food. Water isn’t a bad option either. Don’t forget a dessert! Cupcakes, bars, pie, etc… the sky’s the limit. Remember to bring plates, silverware, napkins, and maybe cups if you think it would be good. Really you can tailor the menu to your heart’s desire, but I hope these suggestions prove useful for you.
You will need a blanket to lay on for your picnic. If you don’t already have a spooky-themed blanket, Etsy actually has many good options and we would recommend taking a browse. The larger the better. Bring the one you think would be best for this event.
If you’d like to add an element of music, classical that has a more dark romanticism feel to it would work best for this setting. If you want something that is more specific for your party, go right ahead and do so! Remember to keep the volume at a respectable level, which means keep it low. Other people may be present and they’re not there to attend a concert. Also keeping the volume low will aid in keeping the conversation going. You can also have some fun with the speaker you use. A small skull-shaped speaker might be a fun element. Don’t forget to have your phone charged for your playlist.
If you want to add other options for entertainment consider bringing a board or card game. We have a small list of spooky-themed games here but classic games such as checkers, chess, kings corners, etc… can also be good options. Reading some gothic poetry is another option. Reciting Edgar Allen Poe in a cemetery? What more could you ask for! Reading some horror short stories to each other could also be fun. But nothing beats good old-fashioned conversation. Entertainment options are good to have, but keep them as options and don’t press them. If you feel like introducing them, then go for it! But don’t forget to talk to each other, as that’s the most important part.
It doesn’t matter if you are doing this to have a nice outing with friends, or if this is a date night. The important thing is to remember to have fun and enjoy yourself!
How To Have A Cemetery Picnic is marked with CC0 1.0 
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