A picnic break

In my country, and especially in Belgrade wehere I live, picnic gatherings are often organized, now more than ever. People are increasingly eager to spend time outdoors, with their children or alone, especially since many don’t have their own yards. Or they don't have the opportunity to travel often to places where they can enjoy nature.

A few weeks ago, a family picnic was held at famous Kalemegdan. I have been to a picnic like this last year and wrote about it here, but back then it was less attended because there weren’t many activities for children.

This time the event brought together kids, parents, and people of all ages and everyone could find an activity to enjoy. And everyone seemed relaxed and happy, as if they had been waiting for a moment like this, to unwind a bit and forget about their daily responsibilities. My days usually aren’t like this. I’m always in a rush and surrounded by hustle and bustle, and I’m not used to slowing down. But actually, it’s really good to slow down a little and listen to yourself and your own thoughts.

We all laid our blankets on the grass and enjoyed the relaxed, playful atmosphere. Those are the moments when you forget about everything that bothers you and surrender to the magic of the picnic.

Children took part in creative workshops, drawing, and even programming. My daughter was so proud when she received praise from the animator for doing the puzzles really well, and she kept asking to do more and more. Even I wasn’t fully aware of how much she knows. I truly enjoyed watching her.
Also, my son amazed me with his interest in creating his own games and programming. He was building his own world there.

My children love playing chess. My dad taught my son, and now my son is teaching my daughter. She still doesn’t understand why she makes some of the moves in chess, but she makes them anyway and sometimes she’s actually a pretty good opponent. And my son gets upset because she keeps winning all the games.

There were also some adventurous and sports activities as well.

Meanwhile, parents had a chance to relax, connect, and chat. Far from work and the daily rush.

I was there with some colleagues who also have kids around the same age as mine, so we all had a great time together. Simple moments and days of connection like this are truly precious, especially when both kids and parents are happy and can enjoy their time in their own way.

If you’re in Belgrade when one of these picnics is happening, don’t miss it. Along with fun and rest, there’s also good music, food, and refreshments. And you will surely have a full day ahead, because here the days are always filled and seem too short for everything we would like to do, sometimes they simply flies by.

Thank you very much for reading.

Jelena