Al Fresco Charm: Vintage Picnic & Outdoor Entertaining Finds

St. Jacobs Market
Aug 15
2 min read

Nothing says summer quite like a picnic blanket spread under the shade of a tree, a cool drink in hand, and good company all around. This month, we’re stepping outside and celebrating the timeless tradition of picnics and outdoor entertaining — through the lens of vintage and antique treasures. From wicker baskets to enamelware mugs, these pieces bring both nostalgia and style to any summer gathering.

What is Picnic & Outdoor Entertaining Ware?

Picnic and outdoor entertaining ware encompasses the tools, containers, and tableware designed for meals enjoyed outside. These can range from practical, portable items like woven baskets, metal thermoses, and enamelware plates, to decorative touches like patterned tablecloths, glass pitchers, and folding camp stools. Many were built to withstand travel and weather, yet their designs reflect the trends of their era — from cheerful 1950s plaid patterns to the sleek lines of mid-century modern drinkware.

A Glimpse into History

The concept of dining outdoors dates back centuries, but the modern picnic culture began to flourish in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as leisure time became more accessible for many families. Purpose-built picnic baskets with compartments for plates, cutlery, and thermoses became popular, and companies like Thermos and Coleman began producing durable containers for hot or cold drinks.

By the 1950s and 60s, picnics were a hallmark of family life, fueled by the rise of car travel and roadside attractions. Brightly colored melamine dishes, tartan blanket rolls, and chrome-handled coolers made appearances at parks, beaches, and campgrounds. These items weren’t just functional — they embodied the optimism and charm of mid-century leisure culture.

Today, vintage picnic and outdoor entertaining ware connects us to those sunny afternoons and simpler times, when the best dining room was under an open sky.

Why Collect Picnic & Outdoor Entertaining Ware?

Collecting vintage picnic and outdoor entertaining pieces is as much about atmosphere as it is about history. These items instantly add character to summer gatherings, whether you use them for their intended purpose or display them as charming décor. Their sturdy craftsmanship means many are still perfectly functional decades later, while their designs evoke eras of style and taste that can’t be replicated by modern mass production. For some, collecting is about nostalgia — remembering family outings or roadside picnics. For others, it’s the joy of mixing and matching colors, patterns, and textures to create a one-of-a-kind summer table. Best of all, many pieces are affordable entry points into the vintage world, making it easy to start a collection that’s both practical and beautiful.