Country music and the great outdoors go hand in hand, which is why these country songs are perfect for your next outdoor picnic. So load up the basket, ice down the cooler and let’s go — and don’t forget the blanket.

What Is National Picnic Day?

According to National Day Calendar, National Picnic Day is a time to move your breakfast, lunch or dinner outside. The holiday encourages families and friends to gather together and enjoy each other’s company over a relaxed meal.

There are really no rules to a picnic. These can be done in the park, at the beach or even on the tailgate of a truck in a parking lot.

As far as food goes, eat whatever you want. Picnics can be simple sandwiches packed with love or a full-blown barbecue with all the fixings served up potluck style. Eat with your hands while sprawled out on a blanket or throw down a tablecloth and set up cutlery — a picnic is yours to have fun with.

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When Did Picnics Start?

Miriam-Webster defines a picnic as “an excursion or outing with food usually provided by members of the group and eaten in the open.”

Some sources attribute the idea of a picnic to the French as far back as the mid-18th century. In fact, the word picnic comes from the French word “piquenique,” which means a meal eaten outdoors. A French picnic consisted of cheese, fruit, wine and bread. Now that sounds like a party!

With summertime right around the corner, keep scrolling to see which country songs would make great additions to your picnic playlist.