National Picnic Day

Help fellow South Africans reconnect with the glory of Mother Nature

Dial-a-Picnic instituted Africa’s very first National Picnic Day on 7 October 2007

South African picnic enthusiasts, as well as those abroad shared in the spirit of Picnic Day. Some packed their own picnics, while those living in Cape Town were able to sample Dial-a-Picnic’s delicious menus.

So successful was the event that they’re doing it for a third time on 31st October 2009.

But what is the spirit of National Picnic Day exactly? Around the world, various countries currently celebrate Picnic Day for various reasons.

We’re living in times of constant change and pressure – more demanding work lives and busier children’s schedules – with far less personal time at our disposal.

We live in a state of disconnection from both ourselves and our environment, and are in desperate need of quality time spent with those closest to us. Nature has been given to us to be enjoyed and we are, indeed, a part of it.

Research by doctors and psychologists around the world are also realizing the benefits of time spent in nature. Credible grounds for ‘green’ prescriptions are being established where doctors prescribe contact with nature for various conditions, according to Australian health professor, Dr Mardie Townsend.

It’s even been proposed that parks be considered a national health resource. “Contact with nature does more than boost personal well-being. It can even help cure social ills, reducing violence and crime rates”, said Professor Townsend.

Celebrating picnics and National Picnic Day offers a way to slow life down, relax and connect. Through this you’ll also discover the pleasures of nature’s beauty. Because Dial-a-Picnic believes nature connects you to the essence of who you are, they feel this pastime can promote a happier and safer South Africa.

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