Susie (she/her) is a queer writer originally from Little Rock, now living in Washington, DC. She is the author of three rom-coms: QUEERLY BELOVED, LOOKING FOR A SIGN, and BED AND BREAKUP, all from Dial Press/Random House. Susie is also a bookseller at her favorite local indie bookstore and a cupcake enthusiast. You can find her on Instagram @susiedoom.
Perhaps you’ve heard of the reading party trend. What’s the next big thing? I’m calling it now: reading picnics! There’s nothing better than a good book, a tasty snack, and a sunny patch of grass. So why not invite your friends and make a lovely day of it?
Whether you’re hosting a reading party, planning a book club meeting, or celebrating a special occasion, a bookish picnic is a great choice. Pick a park, beach, boardwalk, or even your backyard. Start by setting expectations. Will everyone be reading or discussing the same book, or should folks bring whatever they’re reading now? Is it a quiet party for uninterrupted reading time, or are conversations encouraged? And most importantly, what food is everyone bringing?
For menu inspiration, I recommend Cristina Viseu’s The Little Picnic Book: A Cottagecore Picnic Guide, an adorable aide for planning a picnic inspired by the style of Studio Ghibli. Messy food might make turning pages a bit harder, so think less saucy and more easy to serve. And don’t forget napkins and hand sanitizer! What else do you need for a day celebrating books in the great outdoors, you ask? We’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need for a reading picnic.
Image from TheWildPoppyShopCo on EtsyFirst, you need your bookish picnic crew. These downloadable, customizable invitations showcase what your event is all about: books, snacks, and good vibes. $6
The Goods
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Image from FelizBookmarks on EtsyYour picnic blanket is the backdrop that sets the tone for your whole outdoor adventure. With an adorable bookish blanket, you’re guaranteed a good time. $52
Image from KreativeEarth on EtsyThis insulated backpack has room for all the picnic essentials — plus a zippered pocket just the right size for a book. $180
Image from AlphabetBags on EtsyLet’s be real, there are only two things you need for a bookish picnic, and this extra-large tote has room for both. $45
Image from SelfcareSpellsStudio on EtsyWith this perfect shirt, you’ll make sure everyone at the picnic knows what summer is all about. Available in sizes S-3XL. $32+
Image from PixiMoonCreations on EtsyDon’t forget to stay hydrated! This stainless steel water bottle is the perfect choice for a silent reading party picnic. $30
Image from markitlikeitshot on EtsyProtect your book or ereader in this sleeve with delightful picnic vibes. $18
Image from MassVision on EtsyIf you use reading glasses, don’t forget some reading sunglasses to protect those peepers! $21 for a set of three.
Image from SimplyMadeByJessieB on EtsySlap this adorable book picnic basket sticker on your water bottle, ereader case, and/or planner and you’ll be ready for fun in the sun. $5
Image from BookshopByKendra on EtsyGive your books the sweet taste of a sunny picnic with these berry and ladybug bookmarks. $3
For more inspiration for assorted bookish gatherings, here’s a guide to organizing a reading retreat, from the planning process to some goods to enhance the experience. We also have this guide to DIYing a solo reading retreat, and a how-to for assembling the perfect grazing board for reading.
English (US) · 