Anyone who has ever recoiled at the thought of eating lunch outdoors with their neighbours should perhaps think again.
What if there were no bunting involved? No horrible invocation of wartime spirit or mandatory congas? What, in fact, if the idea were to raise money for a thoroughly good cause whilst briefly celebrating the strength and value of friendship?
Children 1st – better known as the Royal Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and involved in child welfare for over 128 years – is coordinating just such a 'Big Lunch 2013' for Sunday 2 June.
They plan a national flowering of al fresco soggy pizzas and burnt sausages, with funds collected on the day going to support Scotland's most vulnerable children and families.
Children 1st wll provide ideas and support – for a free pack and resources, click here. City of Edinburgh Council's website also offers advice on 'Events' here (but don't be put off by mention of marches and parades). A third source of ideas is here.