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Outdoor Catering: Ideas for Themed Picnics and BBQs

As the sunny days of summer approach, outdoor gatherings become increasingly popular. If you're planning a picnic or BBQ event in Erie, PA or Chataqua, NY, adding a unique theme can elevate the experience for your guests. In this blog post, we'll explore exciting and creative ideas for themed picnics and BBQs that will make your catering event in Erie unforgettable.

  1. Beach Party Extravaganza: Transform your outdoor catering event into a beach getaway right in Erie. Set up colorful beach umbrellas, lounge chairs, and a sandy area for guests to relax. Serve refreshing tropical drinks, seafood delicacies, and beach-inspired desserts. Consider incorporating beach games like volleyball or frisbee to enhance the fun and laid-back atmosphere.

  2. Rustic Country Picnic: Embrace the charm of Erie's countryside with a rustic country picnic theme. Decorate the venue with bales of hay, mason jar centerpieces, and checkered tablecloths. Offer a menu featuring comfort foods like fried chicken, grilled corn on the cob, and homemade pies. Don't forget to provide lawn games such as cornhole and horseshoes for added entertainment.

  3. Fiesta Mexicana: Spice up your outdoor catering event with a vibrant Mexican fiesta theme. Set up colorful papel picado banners, piñatas, and sombreros for guests to enjoy. Serve traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, quesadillas, and fresh guacamole. Offer a variety of salsas with different levels of spiciness to cater to everyone's taste buds.

  4. Hawaiian Luau: Transport your guests to the tropical paradise of Hawaii with a luau-themed picnic or BBQ. Decorate the venue with tiki torches, flower leis, and grass skirts. Offer a menu featuring Hawaiian delicacies such as kalua pork, grilled pineapple skewers, and poi. Don't forget to play some Hawaiian music and encourage guests to do the hula dance.

  5. Western BBQ Hoedown: Embrace the spirit of the Wild West with a Western BBQ hoedown theme. Set up hay bales, cowboy hats, and bandanas for a rustic ambiance. Serve hearty BBQ dishes like ribs, pulled pork, and baked beans. Include line dancing or a mechanical bull for entertainment and create a memorable experience for your guests.

  6. Backyard Carnival: Bring the excitement of a carnival to your outdoor catering event in Erie. Set up colorful booths for games like ring toss, balloon darts, and a photo booth. Serve classic carnival food like popcorn, cotton candy, and hot dogs. Consider hiring a face painter or a magician to add an extra element of fun.

Hosting a themed picnic or BBQ in Erie, PA or Chataqua County, NY can elevate your outdoor catering event and create a memorable experience for your guests. Whether you opt for a beach party, rustic country picnic, or a Hawaiian luau, these ideas will help you add a unique touch to your next gathering. Get creative, have fun, and let your themed event shine!


Incorporating themed picnics and BBQs into your outdoor catering repertoire will make your events stand out. So, start planning and get ready to create unforgettable experiences for your guests!

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