Some caterers specialize in catering outdoor picnics and events, including large tent parties. These caterers usually have a special truck outfitted with cooling bins, running water, and sometimes even an oven. These specialists might be a division of a large catering company or a separate company. Often these companies will bring large grills and rotisseries so that they can grill meats and vegetables right in front of guests for parties.

Outdoor catering is particularly tricky because it involves dealing with wind, insects, and geographical and meteorological challenges. The outdoor catering business is not recommended for the catering novice or the faint of heart. In the northern states, the outdoor catering business is highly seasonal, so owners must do all their business between April and October.