The Evolution of Picnics: From Traditional Gatherings to Resort Retreats

A Changing Tradition

In the past, a winter picnic involved early mornings filled with excitement—packing aluminum cookware, setting up tents, gathering firewood, and boarding a bus filled with laughter and camaraderie. The destination was important, but the journey and the delightful chaos were what truly made it special.

However, this picture is shifting.

Nowadays, particularly during peak picnic season, many people are opting for resort-based experiences complete with buffet meals instead of the traditional self-organized outdoor picnics.

This trend reflects changing lifestyles and sparks a broader discussion about comfort versus culture and convenience versus community.

The Rise of Resort Picnics

Families enjoying a picnic at a resort near Guwahati (Photo - Tripadvisor)

For numerous families, colleagues, and friends, the allure lies in the absence of hassle. Instead of planning meals, hiring cooks, renting tents, or coordinating utensils, picnickers now simply book a resort package. These packages typically include access to lawns, music systems, children's play areas, swimming pools, and hot buffet meals.

"People prefer to relax rather than oversee cooking," explains Rajib Das, manager of a riverside resort close to Guwahati. He adds that buffet picnics allow families to spend quality time together without the burden of arrangements.

Corporate groups have particularly embraced this model, finding it convenient due to fixed budgets, consistent food quality, and clean facilities. Young parents share this sentiment.

"Previously, picnics were enjoyable but tiring. Now, we can relish the day without worrying about burnt rice or running out of curry," states Ankita Sharma, who now favors resort picnics with her family.

Impact on Traditional Picnic Providers

Tent owners and service providers express concern over this shift.

In an era where weekends are brief and workweeks are lengthy, the resort picnic model fits seamlessly into contemporary schedules. However, not everyone views this change positively.

For tent owners, cooks, and utensil suppliers, the buffet picnic trend has transformed an entire seasonal economy. Winter used to be their peak season, with one booking often leading to another. "December and January used to sustain our families for months," laments Bhaskar Kalita, a tent owner with over two decades in the business.

The picnic landscape has shifted, and tent owners are feeling the impact (Photo - rishav_20)

"Now, we’ve lost half our bookings. Resorts have taken over what was once our livelihood," he adds. Traditional picnics were collaborative efforts where everyone contributed, whether it was chopping vegetables, lighting fires, stirring pots, or singing during the bus ride. Critics argue that buffets replace participation with mere consumption. "You eat and leave. That’s it. Previously, cooking was a bonding experience. Children learned teamwork. Now, they just line up for food," remarks Rina Bora, a schoolteacher.

Culinary Changes

A Cultural Shift on the Plate

The food landscape has also evolved. Traditional picnic menus were personal, featuring recipes passed down through generations, with spice levels tailored and special dishes prepared with pride. Resort buffets, while refined, often standardize flavors. Nevertheless, some resorts are adapting.

"We now offer local picnic-style dishes prepared live. People seek convenience but also crave nostalgia. We’re striving to balance both," says Das.

Picnickers flocking to a spot at Bogamati (Photo - X)

Finding a Balance

Is There a Middle Path?

Some groups are exploring hybrid picnics by reserving open spaces while hiring cooks or utilizing resorts while bringing along homemade dishes. Others alternate between traditional picnics one year and resort outings the next. It appears that the picnic tradition is evolving rather than fading away.

At its core, a picnic has never solely revolved around food. It has always been about togetherness, shared efforts, and the stories created under open skies.

As lifestyles evolve, so do traditions. The challenge lies in ensuring that, while we embrace comfort, we do not lose the warmth that once made picnics memorable. Because sometimes, the most cherished aspect of a picnic isn’t the food, but the collective effort put into creating a treasured time with family and friends.