Well it's springtime and thoughts are drifting towards long summer days, picnics, trips and maybe even family reunions. As with anything worthwhile planning is the key. The more notice people are given, the more likely they are to be able to attend. And the more people that attend, the better chance you have of hosting a successful reunion.
The very first thing that you need to decide is the type of family reunion you want. This can be a simple BBQ in your back yard or as extravagant as a trip to a giant theme park or a cruise in the Caribbean. Other possibilities include hosting a picnic in a local park, a dinner at a local restaurant, a weekend at a resort, or even a day at a local amusement park. The venue choices are endless. But you need to consider your family's ability to afford the event. In these economic times smaller may be better…but you decide. Check with a few of your close relatives to see what they think. The last thing you what is to be the only one at your family reunion.
Once you have decided on an appropriate venue it's time to decide on a theme. Perhaps a country theme that centers around your family's homeland. Or a particular event, like your ancestors arriving in the New World. Maybe something a little more modern like a Mexican Fiesta, a Hawaiian Luau, a Birthday party, or even a circus. The possibilities are endless. Choose something that will interest your family and entertain all of the guests – adults and children alike.
Now that you have the where and the what you need to decide on the activities that will entertain and create interest. Here's a few suggestions that you should consider:
- Pick activities that match the theme – there's no point to having clowns at a wedding anniversary;
- Pass around a family history book with pictures and stories that everyone can read and talk about;
- Be sure to get someone to record the stories that invariably arise when people review this history book;
- Pass around a notebook that people can add their own stories – anecdotes and important events that shaped your family's history
- If possible include a large wall ancestor chart of the family for everyone to visualize the family structure – leave space for people to correct mistakes and add information if relevant;
- If there's a field get the kids to start a baseball game or a soccer game – be sure to include the bigger kids and adults in the mix;
- Make sure that you involve the kids and the teens – make sure that there's music and games that everyone can enjoy;
- If there's swimming make sure that a few adults are there to supervise;
- Have non-athletic games like a water balloon toss or even an egg toss (this can get messy);
- Other games that you might include are: tug-o-war, egg/spoon races, Frisbee toss, wheelbarrow race, etc.;
- Dancing is always a big draw – get the older adults up to teach the kids and teens some of the older dances – you'll be amazed at how a dance will span the generations;
- Don't forget the nametags – make them easy to read, even colour coded to help people recognize their clan and their distant relatives.
These are just a few suggestions. If you have another idea - don't be shy - add it to the comment section of this blog. Share with us the successes that you have had in the past and even the questions that you have for your next Family Reunion.
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