National Eat Outside Day (August 31)

One weird holiday on August 31st is National Eat Outside Day. Check out the other weird July holidays!

Celebrated every year on August 31st, National Eat Outside Day invites everyone to take their meals outdoors and enjoy the simple pleasure of dining al fresco. This day is all about appreciating the great outdoors, whether it’s a picnic in the park, a meal on a sidewalk café, or a family barbecue in your own backyard.

Eating outside combines the joys of good food with the beauty of the natural world, making it a perfect occasion to unwind and connect with friends and family under the open sky. Read on to learn more about this weird holiday and how you can celebrate it.

When is National Eat Outside Day?

National Eat Outside Day takes place on August 31st each year.

Who Invented National Eat Outside Day?

The specific origin or inventor of National Eat Outside Day is not well-documented. Like many similar observance days, it likely emerged from either promotional efforts by food-related industries, health and wellness advocates, or community organizations aiming to encourage people to enjoy the outdoors while dining. Such days often serve to promote communal activities, healthier eating habits, and an appreciation for nature, aligning well with trends in public health and community engagement.

This observance day is part of a broader cultural appreciation for outdoor activities, and it taps into the longstanding human enjoyment of combining food with the beauty of natural surroundings. Its creation might have been intended to boost engagement in local parks, support restaurants with outdoor seating, and generally promote a more relaxed and social dining atmosphere.

The Benefits of Eating Outside

Eating outside isn’t just a delightful experience—it also offers several benefits:

• Boosts Mood and Health: Being outdoors increases your exposure to sunlight, which helps your body produce vitamin D and can improve your mood. The relaxing nature of being outside also reduces stress and enhances your enjoyment of the meal.
• Enhances Your Meal Experience: Natural settings can increase your satisfaction with meals as you associate the freshness of the air and the beauty of your surroundings with the food you are eating.
• Promotes Social Interaction: Sharing a meal outdoors encourages conversation and can be more relaxing than dining inside. It’s a great way to enjoy quality time with loved ones or to engage in community social events.

How to Celebrate National Eat Outside Day

1. Picnic in the Park: Pack a picnic basket with your favorite foods—sandwiches, fresh fruits, salads, and some refreshing beverages—and head to your local park. Bring a blanket, some games, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. You could also make a picnic charcuterie board.
2. Backyard BBQ: Fire up the grill for a backyard barbecue. It’s a great way to celebrate the end of summer with grilled meats, vegetables, and chilled drinks. Invite neighbors, friends, or family to join in and make it a communal meal. If you’re vegan, you can have a vegan picnic instead.
3. Visit a Restaurant with Outdoor Seating: Many restaurants offer patio or sidewalk seating. Choose a spot that gives you a scenic view or a lively street scene, and enjoy a meal prepared by professionals.
4. Outdoor Potluck: Organize an outdoor potluck where each guest brings a dish to share. Host it in a community space, like a public park or a large garden, and enjoy the variety of foods in a communal setting.
5. Have Breakfast Outside: Start your day by having breakfast on your porch, balcony, or in your garden, like an at-home picnic. Even a simple meal like toast and coffee feels special when accompanied by fresh air and morning sunlight.

Fun Facts About Dining Outdoors

• Historical Dining: Eating outdoors has been a popular practice for centuries. In the Middle Ages, it was common for people to hold large feasts in castle courtyards.
• Picnics: The modern picnic began in France after the French Revolution when royal parks were opened to the public for the first time.
• Al Fresco: The term “al fresco” is borrowed from Italian and literally means “in the cool air,” commonly used to describe open-air dining in English.

Conclusion National Eat Outside Day is the perfect opportunity to step away from the usual indoor routine and enjoy meals with a breath of fresh air. Whether it’s a family gathering, a romantic dinner, or a solo snack in a park, taking your dining experience outdoors is sure to provide relaxation and rejuvenation. So grab a blanket, pack a meal, and take full advantage of the waning days of summer by dining under the sky.

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