Introduction
Ravinia Festival, a beloved summer tradition in Highland Park, Illinois, offers a magical blend of world-class music, stunning natural surroundings, and the quintessential picnic experience. For generations, music lovers have flocked to Ravinia, not just for the performances, but also for the chance to relax on the sprawling lawn, bask in the evening air, and indulge in delicious food and drinks with friends and family. This unique combination creates an atmosphere unlike any other concert venue.
The joy of Ravinia lies not only in the melodies but also in the culinary adventures you embark on. Whether you are a seasoned picnic pro or a Ravinia first-timer, planning your food is a crucial part of the overall experience. This guide aims to provide you with a wealth of Ravinia food ideas, catering to diverse tastes, dietary needs, and budget considerations. We will explore everything from packing the perfect picnic basket filled with homemade delicacies to sampling the tempting offerings available on the Ravinia grounds.
Before we dive in, let’s briefly touch upon the food options already present at Ravinia. While packing your own feast is a popular choice, Ravinia also boasts several restaurants, casual eateries, and marketplace vendors offering a variety of cuisines and snacks. These options provide a convenient alternative if you prefer not to prepare your own food or simply want to supplement your picnic with a special treat. However, for many, the heart of the Ravinia experience is the personalized touch and creative flair that comes with a well-planned picnic. So, let’s explore some Ravinia food ideas to elevate your next outing.
Packing Your Own Picnic Basket: The Essentials
Before the culinary creations, it’s vital to ensure you have the right tools for the task. A well-equipped picnic basket or bag is the foundation of a successful Ravinia food experience. Here’s a breakdown of essential items to include:
First, you will need either a picnic basket or bag. A sturdy basket offers a classic aesthetic and often includes compartments for plates and cutlery. Alternatively, an insulated picnic bag is lightweight and easier to carry, keeping your food at the right temperature for longer.
Next, do not forget a blanket. A large, comfortable blanket is essential for claiming your spot on the lawn. Choose one that is water-resistant on the bottom in case the ground is damp.
You’ll also need plates, cutlery, and cups. Opt for reusable options to minimize waste and add a touch of elegance to your picnic. Bamboo or melamine plates are durable and lightweight, while stainless steel cutlery is a sustainable choice.
Napkins or wet wipes are an absolute must for cleaning up spills and sticky fingers. It’s always better to be overprepared in this department.
A bottle opener or corkscrew is crucial for enjoying your chosen beverages, especially if you’re planning to bring wine or beer.
Trash bags are essential for responsible disposal of waste. Help keep Ravinia clean and beautiful by packing out everything you pack in.
A cooler is vital for keeping drinks cold and perishable food items fresh. Invest in a good quality cooler with ice packs to maintain optimal temperatures.
When assembling your picnic basket, strategic packing is just as important as the contents. Here are a few tips to consider: Keep cold foods cold by using plenty of ice packs and storing them in the cooler. Pack foods in durable, airtight containers to prevent spills and keep them fresh. Minimize mess by pre-cutting fruits, vegetables, and cheeses into bite-sized portions. Consider using reusable containers to reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable Ravinia experience. Finally, pack items in the order you’ll need them, placing snacks and appetizers on top for easy access upon arrival.
Ravinia Food Ideas: Delicious and Easy Options
Now for the fun part – deciding what to pack! The possibilities are endless, but here are some Ravinia food ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
Appetizers and Snacks
Consider a cheese and charcuterie board. This elegant and versatile option is perfect for sharing. Include a selection of cheeses like brie, cheddar, and goat cheese, along with cured meats such as salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni. Add crackers, breadsticks, and fruit for a balanced and satisfying spread.
Crudités and dips are a refreshing and healthy option. Prepare a platter of colorful vegetables like carrots, celery, cucumbers, and bell peppers, accompanied by dips like hummus, guacamole, or a creamy ranch dressing.
Olives and pickled vegetables offer a tangy and flavorful addition to your picnic. Choose a variety of olives, such as Kalamata, green olives, and stuffed olives, and pair them with pickled vegetables like gherkins, artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers.
Fruit salad or skewers provide a sweet and refreshing treat. Combine your favorite fruits like berries, melon, and grapes in a light and refreshing salad, or thread them onto skewers for easy snacking.
Nuts and dried fruit are a convenient and nutritious snack. Pack a mix of almonds, walnuts, cashews, and dried cranberries, apricots, and raisins for a boost of energy.
Chips and salsa or guacamole are a classic picnic staple. Choose your favorite type of chips and pair them with homemade or store-bought salsa or guacamole.
Main Courses (Sandwiches and Salads)
Gourmet sandwiches are a satisfying and versatile option. Try Italian sandwiches with salami, provolone, and roasted peppers, turkey and brie sandwiches with cranberry sauce, or roast beef sandwiches with horseradish mayo.
Wraps are a convenient and portable alternative to sandwiches. Fill them with Mediterranean ingredients like hummus, feta cheese, and vegetables, or opt for a chicken Caesar wrap with grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, and Caesar dressing.
Pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful option for a warm summer evening. Toss pasta with pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and pine nuts, or create a Mediterranean-inspired salad with olives, feta cheese, and cucumbers.
Grain salad is a healthy and filling choice. Combine quinoa or farro with roasted vegetables, herbs, and a lemon vinaigrette.
Chicken salad is a classic picnic dish that can be customized to your liking. Prepare a classic chicken salad with mayonnaise, celery, and grapes, or add a touch of curry for an exotic twist.
Caprese salad is a simple and elegant option that showcases fresh ingredients. Arrange slices of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves on a platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Sweet Treats
The options are endless. Brownies and cookies are always a crowd-pleaser. Bake your favorite batch of brownies or cookies, or purchase them from a local bakery.
Fruit tarts offer a light and elegant dessert. Fill miniature tart shells with pastry cream and top with fresh fruit.
Mini cupcakes are a delightful and portable treat. Choose a variety of flavors and frostings to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.
Macarons are a sophisticated and colorful dessert. These delicate almond meringue cookies are available in a variety of flavors and are sure to impress your fellow picnickers.
Chocolate-covered strawberries are a decadent and romantic treat. Dip fresh strawberries in melted chocolate and let them set before packing them in your picnic basket.
Donuts are a simple and satisfying dessert. Choose your favorite type of donuts, such as glazed, jelly-filled, or chocolate-frosted.
Drinks to Enjoy at Ravinia
No picnic is complete without refreshing beverages. Consider the following options:
Non-Alcoholic Options
Try lemonade or iced tea. Homemade lemonade or iced tea is a refreshing and classic choice. You can also add fruit or herbs for a unique twist. Sparkling water, especially flavored, is a sophisticated and refreshing option. Choose from a variety of flavors like lemon, lime, or berry. Juices offer a healthy and flavorful option. Pack your favorite juices, such as orange juice, apple juice, or cranberry juice. Sodas are a classic picnic staple. Choose your favorite sodas, such as cola, ginger ale, or root beer.
Wine and Beer Considerations
Check Ravinia’s policy. If allowed, wine pairings can complement your food choices. Consider pairing a crisp white wine with cheese and charcuterie, a light red wine with sandwiches, or a rosé with fruit salad. If you are bringing craft beers consider different styles. Light lagers and pilsners are great on a hot day. Pre-mixed cocktails in cans or bottles offer a convenient and hassle-free way to enjoy your favorite cocktails at Ravinia.
Ravinia On-Site Food Options
If you prefer not to pack your own picnic, Ravinia offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. You’ll find restaurants offering upscale dining experiences, casual eateries serving burgers and fries, and marketplaces brimming with sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Look for the notable dishes available during the season, each restaurant usually offers something that is special only to that season. Pricing ranges vary depending on the venue, but you can expect to pay more for on-site food than for a packed picnic.
Tips for a Successful Ravinia Food Experience
To ensure your Ravinia food experience is a success, keep the following tips in mind. First, plan ahead by checking Ravinia’s website for rules and restrictions regarding food and beverages. Consider the weather and pack accordingly. Be mindful of cleanup and disposal, and arrive early to secure a good picnic spot. Finally, remember to share your food with friends and family and enjoy the experience!
Ravinia Etiquette
Remember, Ravinia is a shared space. Respect other guests by being mindful of noise levels, space, and views. Always clean up after yourself and follow Ravinia’s policies regarding alcohol consumption and other regulations. By adhering to these simple guidelines, you can help ensure that everyone has a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Picnicking at Ravinia is more than just eating; it’s a celebration of music, nature, and community. It is about creating memories with loved ones under the summer sky. With a little planning and creativity, you can elevate your Ravinia experience with delicious food that complements the beautiful surroundings and enhances the overall atmosphere. So, gather your friends and family, pack your picnic basket with these ravishing Ravinia food ideas, and prepare for an unforgettable evening filled with music, laughter, and culinary delights. Let the melodies serenade you as you savor the flavors of summer at Ravinia! Get ready to try all sorts of different food and drink combinations.
