Why my annual Friends & Friend’s Friends Picnic matters more than ever
Back in the summer of 2002, I had a simple idea.
What if I invited all my friends to a picnic—and asked them to invite their friends too?
I had no idea what would happen.
What began as a handful of people sharing food in Regent’s Park has grown into one of London’s longest-running community picnics, bringing together thousands of people over the past 24 years.
Among the remarkable people who joined us over the years was the late Eva Schloss—Auschwitz survivor, peace educator and stepsister of Anne Frank. Eva came to the picnic for several years, and I feel deeply honoured that she became part of its story.
And some rather wonderful things have happened along the way.
Lifelong friendships have begun.
People have found jobs through someone they met at the picnic.
Business partnerships and unexpected opportunities have emerged.
And yes, a few love stories have started too!
One couple met at the picnic in 2013 and began dating soon afterwards. They now have four daughters.
All because two people said yes to an invitation and happened to meet one summer afternoon in the park.
Why This Picnic Matters
We live in extraordinary times.
We can communicate instantly with someone on the other side of the world, yet many people feel lonelier and more disconnected than ever.
We may have hundreds of online connections, but nothing replaces sitting together on the grass, sharing food, laughing, playing and having a real conversation.
That is why this picnic has become such an important part of The Connection Revolution.
There are no tickets, no VIP area, no networking agenda and absolutely no pressure.
Just people from different backgrounds, cultures and generations enjoying a summer afternoon together and meeting someone they might never otherwise have met.
Because the best things in life still happen face to face.
What Happens at the Picnic?
Every year, old friends reconnect, new friendships begin and children run around making new friends of their own.
As always, I’ll be bringing my African drums and other musical instruments, giant hula hoops, badminton rackets, footballs, Frisbees and an assortment of other games.
You are welcome to bring your own games and musical instruments too—and grown-ups are strongly encouraged to join in!
This year we shall have a special session of Laughter Yoga with my friend Kalpana Doshi.
Come on your own or bring your partner, children, parents, neighbours, colleagues and friends. Then encourage them to bring their friends too.
The more diverse the gathering, the more magical the day becomes.
Join Us This Sunday
Sunday, 9 August 2026
1.00pm until around 8.00pm
Regent’s Park, near London Central Mosque
Come whenever you like and stay for as long as you like.
Bring your own food and drinks, a picnic blanket or chair, and perhaps something extra to share.
Most importantly, bring yourself exactly as you are.
You can find the full directions and exact picnic location here:
Every year, someone tells me afterwards:
“I nearly didn’t come—and I’m so glad I did.”
Perhaps this will be your year.
Come for the food, the games and the sunshine.
Stay for the conversations, the laughter and the unexpected connections.
One invitation. One conversation. One connection at a time.
I would love to welcome you.
See you in the park!
Arvind
Please share this invitation with anyone you think would enjoy being part of this special day. Everyone is welcome.
