Cliff Proven, Manager American Royal HardwareThis Friday, July 1 at 7:30 pm, Brookdale Park will be the site of the Essex County Summer Concert Series, featuring a free concert performed by the U.S. Military Academy Band, followed by a firework display.  Of course this indicates an evening of great entertainment, but according to my calendar, it signals the official beginning of picnic season.

What are the most important requirements of a picnic? Transportability, ease of eating, and of course, flavor! And since barbeque is the unofficial flavor of summer, it only makes sense to incorporate grilling into the picnic.

But isn’t that difficult? Well, no – if you have the proper equipment. If you’re already a hard-core picniker, you may own a portable grill, but for those who are unaware of the great ease and portability of such grilling gadgetry, consider this a short primer.

There are really three options in portable grilling: propane, charcoal, and electric.  American Royal Hardware, 251 Park Street, Upper Montclair, has all three options currently in stock.

The Weber Q-120 Portable Grill, priced at $179.99, is compact and fueled by a tiny disposable 14.1 oz. LP cylinder – great for parks without electric hook-ups, and especially for those who do not enjoy the challenge of starting charcoal.  

But, for the charbroil purist, American Royal also has the Weber Smokey Joe priced at only $34.99, it’s a small price to pay for genuine flavor.

Then, there’s the Weber Electric Q-140, $229.99, an option for those who obviously have an electric hook-up.

In addition to my Q-120, I’ll be packing some sausage, olives, cheese, panini, and definitely empanadas.

So what are you packing?  And what will you be drinking?