70th Birthday Picnic

When I was in the WI they had get togethers or the annual BBQ & Christmas dinner and everyone each brought a dish - salads, mains, deserts and cheese and biscuits - we all supplied our own drinks, plates, glasses and cutlery for the BBQ. We've also had family parties where everyone has brought a dish of their choice. I'm sure everyone would be more than willing to provide something and also bring their own chairs etc. Sounds a lovely day so hope the weather is great for you all.

Sounds lovely but either make clear your expectation that everyone will bring food to share (in which case ask everyone to let you know in advance what they are bringing so you can get a decent variety of stuff); food for their own family/group; or nothing at all.

I fear leaving it “as you wish” means that folk will turn up empty handed expecting you or others to bring stuff, and there won’t be enough to go around.

Sounds very much my "cup of tea"and I think it is a treat that with a little careful planning and some good weather will be enjoyed by all,and it may become an annual event!
I think you do need to be specific in what you expect others to provide whilst drink and foodways again you need some idea of what each can bring so that you have a well mixed menu and nothing left out.
Wishing you well and lots of some in sandwhich form perhaps plus the best ever!!

We have a big family Boxing Day party in which everyone brings a food or drink contribution. Usually, whoever is hosting it, (we take turns) arranges with people to bring savouries, salads, puddings, nibbles and drinks. It all goes off very well, and there is usually plenty left over to share out and take home.
If you do this sort of thing, it should be wonderful. I hope you have the weather for it!

?????sounds great

?? Oh I hope it does shine for you

???I hope no real donkeys will be harmed in this brutal-sounding game?
Effigies of Nigel Farage, on the other hand........

PIÑATA better late than never, I had to google it ?

I think you might need to be more specific, do you want them to bring and share food? Or sit on their own blankets and sit and eat their own food?
If the former then you will need to organise long tables and plates, serving spoons etc. And maybe even someone to serve it.
Might be nicer for everyone to have their own picnic set ups and food, but maybe bring and share the puddings?

My DD organised a similar party in a london Park, we arrived early and set up, but we only provided the drinks, everyone brought their own food, plates, blankets etc. We organised the games though, the donkey thing where you hang it up and hit it with a stick? And sweets fall out?
I’m sorry my heads a bit muddled today, I’ll think of the word after I’ve posted this I guess....
Hope it goes well.

Yes - but you could suggest savoury, sweet or extra salads otherwise you could get 20 plates of sausage rolls or 20 pavlovas!!

I think it is reasonable - and to bring what they like to drink as you could provide some (but not all).

Can we all join in virtually? It sounds fun