Picnic in the Park 101: Bring a Blanket, Not Expectations

May 21

Let’s set the scene: The grass is still a little damp from the afternoon thunderstorm that almost ruined everything, the band is tuning up with a guitar riff that may or may not be intentional, and your toddler is chasing someone else’s bubbles in a blur of sticky fingers and sunscreen. Welcome to Picnic in the Park!

Every Tuesday evening in Old Schoolhouse Park, the Town of Fraser turns into a laid-back, music-filled, snack-heavy community lovefest. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro with folding chairs that cost more than your monthly Wi-Fi bill, here’s your tongue-in-cheek guide to surviving—and thriving—at Fraser’s favorite summer tradition.

Step 1: Bring a Blanket (or Something to Sit On That Screams “I Camp”)

Seriously. Don’t be the person trying to relax on a single paper towel. Whether it’s a well-worn Pendleton or that suspiciously inflatable lounger from Amazon, claim your turf early and mark it with pride.

Pro tip: Those who arrive early get shade. Those who arrive late get to squint and pretend they like sun in their eyes.

Step 2: BYOB…Beverage, Baby Wipes, and Bite-Sized Snacks

Yes, you can picnic like royalty. No, you shouldn’t rely on that half-melted granola bar you found in your glovebox. Think charcuterie, fruit skewers, or whatever you grabbed from the grocery store 12 minutes before the show started. Bonus points for bringing something to share that isn’t hummus.

And don’t forget a drink (or two). Just, you know… be respectful. This is a family-friendly event, not your cousin’s wedding reception.

Step 3: Dance Like Nobody’s Watching…But Know That Everyone Is

The dance floor (read: that weird open spot near the stage) is open to all ages and energy levels. Expect spontaneous toddler dance battles, dads with rhythm from a past life, and a lot of toe-tapping from the lawn.

If your hips don’t lie, this is your moment.

Step 4: We Love Dogs, But Not at the Park Tonight

Look—we’re obsessed with your dog. We probably follow them on Instagram. But Picnic in the Park is a pet-free event, so please leave the furry friends at home with a treat and a Spotify playlist of barking birds. We promise they’ll forgive you by morning.

Step 5: Embrace the Chaos (and the Weather)

It’s Fraser. It could snow in July. One minute you’re vibing in golden hour sunshine, the next you’re holding your blanket over your head while praying to the rain gods for mercy. That’s part of the fun. Sort of.

Bring a jacket, a rain layer, and maybe some tissues for when the music hits just right.

Final Note: No Expectations, Just Good Vibes

Picnic in the Park isn’t just a music series. It’s a weekly reminder that life doesn’t need to be perfect to be pretty dang wonderful. It’s kids on scooters, grandparents in lawn chairs, local bands doing their thing, and neighbors reconnecting over a shared bag of kettle corn.

So come as you are. Bring your weird cooler, your sunhat, your sleepy summer energy. Bring a blanket—but leave the expectations (and the pets) at home.

See you Tuesday.