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That the sky is the ceiling and the table is a picnic table doesn't mean you can forget about outdoor dining and table etiquette. Basic proper table manners apply, especially if your picnic is in a public setting, and there are a few extra rules that are specific to outdoor dining experiences. Location If you are dining at a park or playground, consider where you will be eating. Some parks feature picnic tables that are spread far apart to give families some privacy, while others are all crowded together under a pavilion. Choose a location that at least offers a little bit of a buffer zone, both out of respect for privacy and also so your activity won't disturb others and theirs won't bother you. Serving food Many picnics are served family style, while others are buffet. Either way, be sure that you are following proper table etiquette. For family style, help yourself and pass from the left to the right. Never reach across the table for something; ask politely for it to be handed to you instead. When helping yourself to chips or cookies something from a community bag or box, either shake out the food onto your plate or only touch what you will take and nothing else. Eating picnic food Lots of picnic food is meant to be eaten with the fingers, so go ahead if it is widely acceptable finger food like hot dogs, chips, olives, vegetables and dip and cupcakes. However, other food items that would normally be eaten with utensils should still be eaten this way outside, such as salads, beans, cakes and pies. Be sure to have a napkin handy when eating finger foods so you can keep your fingers clean at all times. Never lick your fingers to clean them. Of course, other proper table manners still applies with outdoor dining, such as not talking with your mouth full and sitting up straight. After eating It is proper table etiquette to clean up your own place when you are finished. Immediately pick up anything you've used, such as an empty cup or soiled napkin, and head to the nearest garbage can. While in a restaurant or a dinner party someone usually takes care of this task, at a picnic most of the table setting is disposable. That and the casual atmosphere mean you can clear your own place when finished.
For more information on table etiquette, visit the holidays section of Life123.com.
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