The Amish and picnics go hand-in-hand during the warm summer months. Amish homes are often cozy and can become quite warm without air-conditioning or fans, and when the kitchen stove heats up the house, families naturally move outdoors. Eating outside or packing a meal to enjoy at a favorite swimming hole or park is a common and welcome tradition for many Amish households.
A Picnic With The Amish Cook & Family
When The Amish Cook’s husband, Daniel, called to say they would be passing through my area of Ohio, I eagerly accepted the chance to meet up. Rather than wrestle seven children into a restaurant setting, I suggested a relaxed picnic at a nearby park. With just 24 hours to plan and limited time for homemade preparations, we organized an easy, crowd-pleasing menu: carry-in pizzas, cookies, and fresh watermelon that Rachel sliced ahead of time. It was simple, portable, and perfect for a sunny afternoon outdoors.
We gathered at Carriage Hill MetroPark in Huber Heights, Ohio — a scenic park just off I-70. The park features an 1800s working farm, wide trails, and a peaceful pond, creating a fitting backdrop for an Amish-style picnic. The farm setting seemed familiar and comforting to our guests, and the open spaces gave the children plenty of room to run, play, and explore while the adults relaxed and talked.
Seeing Gloria, Daniel, and their family again was a real pleasure. It was my first time meeting their foster children and baby Elijah. The family brings both warmth and a lively energy — typical of close-knit Amish households. One of my favorite parts of the day was watching the children play together: small friendships forming, imaginative games starting spontaneously, and the simple joy of shared summer freedom.
Our Favorite Amish Picnic Recipes!
Below are a few of Gloria’s picnic favorites—easy recipes and ideas that travel well and suit any summer outing. These dishes emphasize simple, wholesome ingredients and straightforward preparation, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings. Whether you’re planning a family picnic, a community potluck, or a spontaneous meal at the park, these recipes bring classic Amish flavor and dependable comfort to the table.
Popular picnic choices include hearty, portable main dishes like cold pizza slices, savory sandwiches on sturdy bread, and classic salads that hold up well without refrigeration for short periods. For dessert, baked cookies and slices of ripe watermelon are always winners with kids and adults alike. Be sure to pack plenty of napkins, a lightweight cooler for perishables, and reusable containers for leftovers to reduce waste and make cleanup simple.
Carriage Hill MetroPark provided a welcoming setting for our picnic, with shady spots for spreading out blankets and benches for those who prefer a firmer seat. The park’s farm and natural areas create a relaxed atmosphere that complements the unhurried pace of an Amish-style outdoor meal. All in all, it was a lovely afternoon of good food, friendly conversation, and kids enjoying the outdoors — the perfect summer picnic.