Family reunions can be a lot of fun, but they can also be quite stressful. If you’re in charge of planning, the pressure is on to ensure everyone has a great time. We curated this list of fun and fabulous family reunion ideas to help you make that happen.
In this article:
- Tips for Planning the Perfect Family Reunion
- Fun Family Reunion Ideas
Tips for Planning the Perfect Family Reunion
Planning a family reunion can be a rewarding yet challenging task. Here are some tips to help you plan an event that runs smoothly from start to finish:
- Start planning early. Begin planning at least several months in advance, especially if family members need to travel. This gives everyone enough time to clear their schedules and make necessary arrangements.
- Consider personalities. Is your family a casual bunch or more formal? It’s important to consider everyone’s personality and taste to create an event that’s comfortable and fun for everyone.
- Develop a budget. Determine how much you can realistically spend. Consider contributions from family members to cover expenses like venue rental, food, and activities.
- Choose a centrally located, convenient location. Select a location that is relatively easily accessible for the majority of family members.
- Plan fun activities. Plan a mix of activities to suit family members of all ages, from games for kids to areas for older members to relax and socialize.
- Consider catering options. Cooking, catering, and potlucks are all options to consider. Even if you decide to cook, ordering a few party platters from Edible Arrangements® can elevate your event. From fresh fruit favorites to chocolate dipped fruits, fresh baked cookies, and fabulous dessert boards that include a variety of decadent treats to suit every taste, you’ll find plenty of options to keep all your family members satisfied.
Fun Family Reunion Ideas
For more fun family reunion ideas you might want to try, we put out a call for ideas and curated responses below. (Note: Edible Arrangements® is not endorsing any of the companies or ideas discussed below, but we asked for suggestions to get some different perspectives.)
Keep reading to find out what the contributors who responded to our query had to say about their favorite family reunion ideas.
Laura Wasser
Laura Wasser is a family expert and chief of divorce evolution at Divorce.com. She is a sought-after voice on TV and in print on women’s issues, the evolution of divorce, and entrepreneurship.
“A family talent show is a fun way to showcase the skills and talents of each family member, as well as to celebrate the diversity and uniqueness of the family.
A family talent show can be anything from singing, dancing, playing an instrument, telling jokes, doing magic tricks, or anything else that the family members enjoy. It can be as formal or as casual as the family prefers, and it can be done in person or online.
A family talent show is a great way to bond with the family, to have fun, and to create lasting memories. It helps to heal any rifts or conflicts that might have occurred in the past, as the family members cheer each other on and appreciate each other’s talents. A family talent show also inspires the younger generations to pursue their passions and hobbies, and to learn from the older generations.
A family talent show brings out the best in everyone, and celebrates the family as a whole.”
Dominique B. Dupuis
Dominique B. Dupuis is the business expert & specialist in everything leather, fashion & design for the established company URAD.
“I’m part of a large family, and it’s always a challenge-and a delight-to successfully organize a reunion with people from all over the country and world.
One helpful tip I’ve picked up over the years is to communicate with as many people as possible with an online poll. Centering the event around someone’s birthday or anniversary, or another family milestone, will encourage people to consider attending. I usually offer 3 prospective dates and then go with whichever gets the most votes.
I also love games and find this is an excellent way to promote camaraderie and make joyful memories for a group. Every time we meet, I make sure to have an activity planned, such as:
- Find-the-Family-Member Bingo, which gets everyone moving around and learning about each other
- Family Trivia, which includes fascinating facts about family members and makes a great guessing game.
- A mini-talent show, so young and old alike can show off their special skills.”
Lindsey Hyland
Lindsey Hyland is a gardening and landscaping expert and the creator of Urban Organic Yield. From beginner how-tos to in-depth information on growing succulents, hydroponics, and vegetable farming, UrbanOrganicYield.com has everything you need to grow your herbs successfully at home.
“My favorite family reunion idea revolves around sharing and creating memories.
We typically host a photo-sharing contest where everyone submits their favorite family photo from the past. These photos are then displayed on a large screen for everyone to see.
Family members vote for their favorite photo throughout the reunion, and the winner gets a fun prize. This idea doesn’t just bring us together physically, but it also emotionally connects us as we reflect on shared experiences and precious moments from our past.
We all laugh, cry, and reminisce together as we explore our family history. It’s always a wonderful time!”
Kateryna Elbahey
Under the leadership of esteemed CEO, Kateryna Elbahey, Match LLC has been at the forefront of connecting individuals and fostering meaningful relationships in today’s digital age.
“One of my favorite family reunion ideas is organizing a Brand Fair.
Just like companies use fairs to showcase their products, every family member or immediate family group sets up a ‘stall’ to share stories, experiences, or skills they’ve acquired over the year.
This provides an engaging platform for members, especially the younger generation, to learn about their family history, traditions, and unique talents. It promotes bonding, understanding, and appreciation, all while injecting a fun, interactive twist to the usual gatherings.”
Tiffany McGee
Tiffany McGee is a spirituality expert, author of the book Manifesting Love, and the founder of Nomadrs, a platform focused on spirituality, relationships, mental wellness, and lifestyle.
“My favorite family reunion idea is something I like to call Global Soul Gathering.
Here’s the vision: A family reunion that isn’t bound by a single location. Think of it as a series of virtual and physical gatherings happening simultaneously in different parts of the world. Thanks to technology, we can all be connected in real time and engage in activities such as:
- Virtual cooking classes where everyone’s making the same family recipe in their own kitchens
- A live-streamed meditation and intention-setting ceremony led by me
- Family members sharing a slice of their current surroundings during a global virtual tour
- A shared Spotify playlist pumping family favorites into everyone’s speakers, no matter where they are
What I absolutely adore about this idea is that it reflects how interconnected yet diverse our lives have become. It allows us to embrace our individual journeys while still honoring the anchor that is family.”
Poonam Guglani
Poonam Guglani is the founder and writer of an independent publication called The Lady Wise. She aims to empower women worldwide through the power of words and foster a solid and supportive community.
“When I think about organizing a family reunion, I’m filled with excitement and nostalgia.
It’s a time when we can all come together, setting aside our busy lives to create lasting memories. Family reunions are a chance to cherish our bonds and celebrate the unique qualities that each member brings to the fold.
One idea that stands out to me is the talent show. It’s incredible to discover the hidden talents within our family—the singers, dancers, chefs, painters, and comedians we never knew existed. Sharing stories and playing fun games like Who Am I or a fishing contest by the lake adds a special touch to these gatherings.
But it’s not just about the activities; it’s about the warmth, laughter, and sense of belonging that family reunions bring. It’s a time when we make new memories, reminisce about the old ones, and strengthen the bonds that make us a family.”
Anna Krizova
Anna hiked the 800 km Camino de Santiago pilgrimage across Spain where she met her husband. They now run a blog about the Camino and other hiking routes. In her day job, Anna works as a psychotherapist.
“As someone who’s been all over the world, I’ve seen more than a few very unique family reunions, and I often implement what I’ve seen on such occasions for my own family reunions.
Organizing a sort of “get to know you” bingo is one of the best family reunion ideas I’ve ever seen and one that I’ve already used for one of our own gatherings. It is, in my opinion, the best way to reconnect with your extended family.
What you’ll want to do here is design bingo cards with interesting personality-related questions. Use the cards to play a bingo game, where family members must guess which of the other family members matches the description specified on the card. Here are a few examples:
- Who owns more than one pet?
- Whose favorite dish is mashed potatoes?
- Who played basketball in high school?”
Anna Nielsen
Anna Nielsen serves as the Marketing Director for Our Good Living Formula, bringing over a decade of expertise to the role. Specializing in crafting result-driven marketing campaigns, her strategic approach has consistently delivered measurable success.
“Crafting is really fun, and when it comes to family reunions, we regularly designate a craft corner that serves as a creative hub for kids and even adults.
The idea is to gather a bunch of crafting supplies like coloring pages, googly eyes, popsicle sticks, pipe cleaners, and so on. All of this stuff is super affordable, by the way—I usually snag a bunch of items from my local dollar store.
The goal here isn’t just to keep the little ones busy (though it certainly does that!). It’s also about letting them express themselves creatively.
You can designate a special shelf or wall area to display their crafts. This does wonders for their self-esteem and serves as a conversation starter among family members.
Plus, it’s just plain fun! The adults get a kick out of it too and sometimes join in, making it a wholesome family activity. It’s an affordable, engaging, and expressive addition that can make your gathering memorable.”
Ruiz Asri
Ruiz Asri is the CKO & Editor of Honest Food Talks, a website dedicated to helping people discover new recipes, kitchen hacks, and the latest food trends.
“Family gatherings are synonymous with sumptuous meals.
No gathering is complete without the different foods the family ate when they were young and together. For this type of gathering, barbecue or grilled meat is a must.
You know it is special when people gather around a grill, catching up with life, and the smoke of sizzling meats sails through the air. Not only does this allow for a varied menu, but it also encourages everyone to partake in the cooking process, making the meal a group activity that fosters bonding and camaraderie.
Then, we have the salad bar, a fantastic option for offering a fresh and crisp flavor found at reunions. By providing a variety of greens, fresh fruits, and a selection of nuts and dressings, you enable your folks to craft salads to their liking. It’s not just a feast for the palate but for the eyes, too, with its vibrant and inviting allure.
Lastly, there’s the pie station, where the sweetness of the reunion is reflected in an assortment of pies. Classics like apple pie or peach cobbler are placed side by side with conventional options like salted caramel chocolate pie. This allows for a beautiful blend of tradition and novelty, echoing the essence of family reunions, where generations come together.”
Zarina Bahadur
Zarina Bahadur is the CEO and founder of 123 Baby Box, a monthly subscription box for babies aged 1 to 3. Zarina graduated from the University of California Irvine last year, and started her company while still in school.
“I love family reunions, and my favorite idea has to be organizing a theme-based potluck picnic in a local park.
It’s a fantastic way to blend delicious homemade dishes with a bit of fun and nostalgia.
We pick a unique theme each year, like Around the World or Back to the ’80s, and encourage everyone to dress up accordingly. Then, each family brings a dish that fits the theme, which sparks creativity and often results in a diverse and exciting spread. It’s not just about the food; it’s a chance to showcase cultural heritage and share family recipes.
We set up games like a three-legged race, tug-of-war, or a scavenger hunt to keep everyone entertained, regardless of age. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to capture those memorable moments with photos and videos.
The best part? It fosters a sense of togetherness, strengthens family bonds, and creates cherished memories. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and a whole lot of fun.”
Heather Featherston
Heather Featherston has spent her career serving pregnant mothers and families coming together through open adoption. She is currently the Vice President of Lifetime Adoption, a licensed child-placing adoption agency.
“If your reunion includes many people not well known to all, such as birth family members connected through adoption or new relations discovered thru DNA services, create a ‘family tree’ as a display that shows how everyone is related. It is a great visual representation of the connections that make up ‘Our Family.'”
Sophie Nutley
Sophie Nutley is a passionate and dedicated HR professional who has more than a decade of experience in people led functions in the financial sector. She is the Head of Recruitment for Protect Line, one of the UK’s leading life insurance brokerages.
“I’m a lifelong Disney fan, and last year I actually managed to organize my favorite family reunion ever.
After COVID lockdown and nearly two years of not being able to see each other, we needed to do something special. So I planned a long weekend in Disneyland Paris for my entire family, booked on property hotel rooms, park and Eurostar tickets for everyone (we all paid our own, individual bills) who wanted to go. It was the best three days that we’ve, as a family, ever had.
And, it was so much fun that we’re planning to do it again next year. How could you not have a great time in the happiest place on Earth? It’s the perfect place for any and all family reunions.”
Andrew Tomson
Andrew Tomson is the project manager at Sofilmar.
“My favorite family reunion is recreating outfits from our popular childhood movies and then acting out popular scenes from those movies.
For example, the car scene from Madea’s family reunion. The acting out is done around a bonfire or in a dimly lit room with plenty of food to go around.
Alternatively, we may create a raised platform to act as a stage. A photo booth is also part of the setup so we can preserve the memories and outfits.
I like this idea because amateur acting is hilarious, and it pushes us to feel free and have fun without fear of judgment. In addition, it brings back fond childhood memories.”
Larry Snider
Larry Snider is the VP of Operations of Casago.
“When the family shares the idea of a family reunion, encourage them to create a bunch of photographic memories at the event and create a time capsule at the end of it. If you have another family reunion down the road, you can open it and relive the memories and see how things have changed.
My family does this every five years. We get together at a venue for a weekend and by the end of the weekend we drop a bunch of photos into a stainless steel box.
The box goes home with somebody different every time and they’re responsible for bringing it to the next reunion. It’s a lot of fun.”
Dustin Sitar
Dustin Sitar is the CEO of The Groom Club.
“Get the family together for a weekend filled with multiple events.
I’m rather fond of hiring a photographer and having a photoshoot. Alternatively, somebody can make an Instagram page for the reunion and spend the weekend snapping candid photos of everyone having a good time.”
Todd Saunders
Todd Saunders is the CEO of FlooringStores.
“While any family reunion can be fun and rewarding, I particularly enjoy reunions centered around a shared activity.
For example, I once went with a close friend to a family reunion where everyone participated in an escape room. It was a fun way to reconnect with extended family members you don’t see often, refreshing bonds without needing small talk.
It may not be practical for every family size, but I genuinely appreciated their out-of-the-box approach to reconnecting.”
Nathan Russo
Nathan Russo is the Director of Operations at Florida Panhandle Vacation Rentals.
“I think it’s great when family reunions can be either centered around or include other events/activities.
It’s so common for reunions to be a little awkward for people, whether you’re meeting a bunch of relatives for the first time or seeing them for the first time in a long time. That’s
why I think it’s helpful for there to be things on the itinerary beyond just conversations.
Events or activities can be a great way to break the ice and create memories that everyone can bond over together.”
Ryan Farley
Ryan Farley is the CEO of LawnStarter, which makes it easy to find and book quality lawn care services in your area.
“One of the best family reunions we ever had was a campout.
We simply booked a group campground, collected part of the fee from every family that showed up, and left the rest to the individual families. We didn’t have to coordinate meals or plan any big events; we just set up camp and found ways to hang out organically over a long weekend.
Just about the only issue we ran into is that the reunion was so popular that we outgrew the group campsite the next year and had to find somewhere else to gather.”
Justin Soleimani
Justin Soleimani is the Co-Founder of Tumble, a homeware company that creates beautiful, practical, and affordable home furnishings, including a line of machine-washable and spillproof rugs that are sure to bring together any room.
“A scavenger hunt is always an excellent idea for a family reunion.
Nothing brings the family together like a team-building exercise. Scavenger hunts can have any number of themes, can take many forms appropriate to any situation, and are always a guaranteed way to get the kids involved and off their screens for a while. Best of all, the right prize can be the perfect way to bring everyone together to celebrate.”
Jimmy Doheny
Jimmy Doheny is the Director of Revenue and Operations at Demand.io and a key player in the success of SimplyCodes. With a sharp focus on monetization strategies and creating operational efficiencies, Jimmy aids users in optimizing their shopping journeys and assists publishers in monetizing their shopping content.
“In today’s age of rapid technological advancements, AI offers a unique opportunity to rekindle memories and bridge generational gaps during family reunions.
Imagine a gathering where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present, allowing family members to relive cherished moments and connect with their ancestors in profound ways.
One of the most captivating applications of AI in this context is the creation of AI-enhanced photo albums. With the magic of artificial intelligence, old black-and-white family photographs, which once lay dormant in dusty albums, can be brought back to life. AI algorithms can meticulously colorize these vintage photos, restoring them to their original vibrancy.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. Advanced AI models can enhance the resolution of these photos, ensuring that every detail, from the texture of an ancestor’s dress to the twinkle in their eyes, is captured with stunning clarity. The most awe-inspiring feature is the ability of AI to animate these still photos. Imagine watching your great-grandmother’s smile widen,
or your great-grandfather tip his hat, all from a photograph taken a century ago.
These animated photos can be showcased in a digital gallery, allowing family members to virtually walk through their family’s history. As they navigate this gallery, they’re not just observers; they become active participants, experiencing moments from the past as if they were standing alongside their ancestors.”
Dustin Lemick
Dustin Lemick is the CEO of BriteCo Jewelry Insurance.
“I’m a big fan of the family creating a time capsule during the reunion.
They can snap multiple pictures and save them onto a thumb drive and leave different items in the capsule that were important to a person at the time. It’s a good way to plan another family reunion down the road and get everyone excited for it.”
Alexandra Fung
Alexandra Fung is a mom of four and co-founder of Upparent, a parent-to-parent website where families can discover and share recommendations about local events and activities, things to do with kids at home, kid-friendly recipes, books, toys, products and more.
“Family reunions are a great time to play games that are most fun with lots of players.
In addition to indoor games like Spoons, Pictionary or Speed Scrabble, family reunions are a perfect time to get everyone active with outdoor games like Ghost in the Graveyard, Capture the Flag, or Freeze Tag.”
Inez Stanway
Inez is the founder of MondayMandala.com, which is one of the leading craft websites in the world and is a trusted resource for teachers, parents, and support professionals.
“My all-time favorite family reunion idea is The Family Memory Mosaic.
Imagine this: every family member, from the youngest to the eldest, contributes a small craft or memento that represents a cherished memory or symbolizes something about the family. It could be a tiny handcrafted boat from a lakeside vacation, a small embroidered patch capturing a wedding, or even a doodle by the youngest member, signifying family.
Throughout the reunion, each member shares their story behind their contribution. By the end, we piece these mementos together into a beautiful mosaic or memory quilt. This not only becomes an activity that binds us but also a tangible memory of our collective history.
As someone who’s intimately witnessed the power of crafts in telling stories and evoking emotions, I find this idea encapsulates the very essence of reunions. It’s an interplay of past and present, a melding of individual stories into a shared narrative. And let’s face it, amidst the fast pace of today’s world, these are the slow, treasured moments that ground us.
To any family looking to deepen their connections and etch their histories, I’d say, let your reunions be more than just gatherings. Let them be an opportunity to craft, share, and immortalize your collective journey.”
Kelsey Waddell
Kelsey is a writer at Stroller-envy.com, a teacher, and mom of two living in southern Virginia. She enjoys adventuring with her family and always has at least one table covered in messy craft supplies.
“I want to share a family reunion idea that brings together great food and nostalgic memories: the Family Cookbook Potluck!
Picture it: each family member brings that dish he or she is famous for. Grandma’s famous lasagna, your cousin’s spicy hot wings—they’re all there. Each person will also write down and copy their recipe so that every family member can compile a family cookbook to take home.
It’s not just about the delicious food; it’s about the stories and traditions that come with each dish. Plus, the cookbook, packed with family recipes, can be shared and passed down for generations.”
Chris McGuire
Chris McGuire is the founder of Real Estate Exam Ninja and a real estate investor and a licensed broker with 20 years of experience.
“A memorable family reunion idea is to plan a Family Heritage Trip.
This involves selecting a destination that holds significance to your family’s history or cultural background. It could be the town or country where your ancestors originated from, where important family events occurred, or a location with sentimental value.
The trip can include visits to historical sites, family landmarks, and cultural attractions. You can arrange guided tours or activities that allow family members to learn about their ancestral roots, explore heritage museums, and even connect with distant relatives if possible.
Incorporate interactive activities like learning traditional dances or songs or participating in workshops highlighting your family’s unique traditions or crafts. The Family Heritage Trip strengthens family bonds and provides an opportunity for personal growth, cultural exploration, and a deeper connection to your family’s heritage. It creates lasting memories and a shared identity that can be cherished for generations.
For a heartwarming family reunion idea, organize a Generational Storytelling Circle. This activity allows different generations of the family to come together and share their life stories, memories, and wisdom.
Create a cozy and comfortable space where everyone can gather, such as around a bonfire or in a living room with cushions and blankets. Start by designating a storytelling facilitator who guides the session and prompts family members to share their stories.
Each person can take turns sharing a significant moment, a funny anecdote, or a life lesson they’ve learned. Encourage active listening, supportive feedback, and a non-judgmental atmosphere.
You can even prepare guiding questions to spark memories, like:
- What was your favorite family tradition growing up?
- Tell us about a challenging experience that shaped who you are today.
By creating a safe and inclusive space for storytelling, the Generational Storytelling Circle deepens family connections, preserves family history, and provides an opportunity for younger generations to learn from the wisdom and experiences of their elders.”
Teri Thomas
Teri Thomas is a retired Business Management Expert who currently operates a Retirement Blog, By Teri Thomas.
“My favorite family reunion activity is more than an idea; it’s what we do on the last Saturday night of our reunion every three years. Everyone shows up that night, ready to take to the stage to show off their talent in our Inter-Generational Family Talent Show.
I know a talent show is neither new nor different, but here is the thing: it’s about something other than showcasing world-class talents; it’s about the magic that unfolds when we share a piece of ourselves.
Seeing the different generations come together, sharing a stage, and most importantly, sharing a piece of their world never gets old. There is laughter, applause, and the occasional playful tease, all in good fun.
It’s not about who is the most talented; it’s about the stories behind each act, the memories made, and the strengthened bonds. It’s about the shy ones finding their voice, the elders reliving their youth, and family sharing in a celebration of togetherness.
I hope this conveys what makes the Inter-Generational Family Talent Show such a special and heartwarming reunion idea!”
Amy Smith
Amy, a dedicated mom of two, is the passionate co-founder of AmyandRose. With a mission to create moments, she curates family-oriented content and products.
“One of my all-time favorite family reunion ideas is a Heritage Hunt.
Here’s why:
- Discovery and Bonding: Families split into teams, researching and presenting little-known stories from our ancestry. The mixture of fun, competition, and heartwarming stories reignites family bonds.
- Quotable Moment: As my 7-year-old daughter once said, So, we’re kinda like detectives, but for our own family!
- Research-Backed: According to a Harvard study, children who know more about their families show higher levels of emotional well-being. It’s not just a game; it’s a pathway to connection and resilience.
On the flip side, and slightly controversial, while technology can be a great tool for these hunts, I advocate for a no-phone policy during the reunion. The essence is genuine bonding, and screens can sometimes be a distraction.
Remembering a reunion when my son unexpectedly discovered our great-grandfather was a war hero was truly unforgettable. His eyes lit up as he shared the story. It wasn’t just history; it was his story.”
Camille Sawyer
Camille Sawyer is the CEO of HIX.AI, a cutting-edge AI writing tool that allows super-unique content creation.
“Playing games and hosting a family history trivia are my favorite ways of celebrating a family reunion.This is because these group activities elicit lots of laughter while creating lasting memories.
My favorite games include:
- Hot Potato Camera. This entails setting a timer on a camera, then passing it around quickly, with each person holding it in front of their face as if taking a selfie. Whoever’s face is captured when the timer runs out is removed from the next game.
- Who’s Who. In this game, everyone brings a baby picture of themselves. These photos are stuck on a board, and then each family member tries to identify which baby photo belongs to whom.
- Board Games: In addition, board games and charades are an excellent way to spend family time together.
- Family Trivia: Once people have had enough of games, it’s time for a spin the bottle family trivia. The person pointed by the top side of the bottle is asked a question by the one who spins the bottle. This question has to be related to family history. The trivia is fun and allows people to know more about each other.”
Christy Pyrz
Christy Pyrz is the CMO for Paradigm Peptides. She’s a driven, flexible, proficient, and creative individual who cherishes the rigors of business development. She functions as an impetus with you, your staff, and partners pushing toward your objectives. She can lead the charge or mix in, working at any capacity to manage a successful goal orientated campaign.
“A family cruise is always fun.It’s a great way to bring everyone together in one place, while ensuring there’s something for everyone to do.
Many cruise lines will also give group discounts, so it can be affordable with a little bit of planning. Whether you have a baby on board or your 90-year-old grandma, everyone will have a good time.
Let your family members choose their own activities during the day, and then plan to all eat dinner together at night for some family bonding.”
Aditya Kashyap Mishra
Aditya Kashyap Mishra is a Certified Relationship Expert, Life Coach, LifeStyle Blogger, and Co-Founder of MoodFresher. He is a featured contributor to some of the most prominent online sites such as Today, PsychCentral, PopSci, SheKnows, AskMen, BestLifeOnline, and so on. For over five years, he has been helping people with their relationships by writing through his own experiences and sharing what he has learned from other successful people.
“My favorite family reunion ideas are:
- Outdoor Olympics: Turn your reunion into a friendly competition with an outdoor Olympics event. From relay races to tug-of-war, these games will get everyone involved and encourage some healthy rivalry. Prepare medals or trophies for the winners and watch the laughter and camaraderie unfold.
- Themed Costume Party: Who doesn’t love dressing up? Choose a unique theme for your family reunion, such as the 80s, superheroes, or a favorite movie. Encourage everyone to come in costume and have a blast with a parade, costume contest, and lots of photo opportunities.
- Talent Show Extravaganza: Showcase the diverse talents within your family by organizing a talent show extravaganza. From singing and dancing to magic tricks and stand-up comedy, this event will bring out everyone’s creative side. Create a stage, set up a sound system, and let the spotlight shine on the stars of your family.
- Family Recipe Cook-Off: Food brings people together, so why not host a family recipe cook-off? Ask each family member to share their favorite recipe and have a friendly competition to determine the best dish. Not only will you enjoy delicious food, but you’ll also get to learn and appreciate each other’s culinary skills.
- Outdoor Movie Night: Transform your backyard into a cozy outdoor theater by setting up a large screen and providing blankets and popcorn. Choose a family-friendly movie that everyone can enjoy together under the starry night sky. This relaxed and entertaining activity will surely become a cherished memory.”
Jeremy Scott Foster
Jeremy Scott Foster is the CEO of the online travel site, TravelFreak. As a travel enthusiast, Jeremy celebrates everything about travel, adventure, and remote working in both my personal and professional life.
“Reuniting with your loved ones is always special because of the forever bond.Adding a little more extra spark to such times could make your time even more memorable.
However, if you’re short of time, what’s better than planning a photoshoot followed by a gaming night? This is one of my favorite things to do, reuniting means cherishing old memories while creating new ones. You can decide on a specific theme where everybody gets all dressed up, with a little pomp and show it could be fun.
Moreover, the gaming challenge could be something related to your loved ones, where you get to know each other even more. I personally love the concept of gaming quizzes which strengthen your bond altogether!
You can also bring out your favorite board games from your childhood treasure, and relive those times. All of this could be even paired up with winter BBQ, and cooking together under one roof is just great.”
Kimberly Wall
Kimberly Wall is the Co-Founder Of BibleKeeper. She is a devoted disciple group leader in an emerging Christian congregation in Pennsylvania, USA.
“My top choice for a family reunion is Living History Day.
This event encourages family members of all ages to share stories and memories from different generations in a cozy, welcoming setting, like around a bonfire or in a spacious living room.
This activity not only strengthens family bonds but also preserves our heritage and history. Younger members learn about their ancestors’ lives, fostering a sense of belonging and identity. It’s a beautiful way to honor our ancestors while connecting deeply with our current family members.
For those seeking to strengthen family ties at their next reunion, I highly recommend trying Living History Day. It’s a heartfelt and genuine way to celebrate your family’s journey and the unique stories that define your family.”
Mollie Newton
Mollie, a devoted animal lover and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), is the esteemed founder of PetMeTwice. She developed a profound love for animals from a young age, engaging in activities such as voluntarily walking dogs and caring for a myriad of pets.
“One of my enduringly favorite themes for a family reunion involves a Recipe Swap and Cook-Off.Each family member brings a treasured recipe, which might have been handed down through generations or hold significance within their immediate family.
The idea goes beyond just exchanging these recipes; it involves collective cooking and preparation. This turns into a grand culinary event, where the stories behind each dish are revealed, and everyone casts their vote for the most favored creation.
This concept serves as a celebration of family heritage, a platform to showcase culinary skills (or at least culinary enthusiasm!), and an opportunity for storytelling and strengthening family bonds. Furthermore, it results in a compilation of cherished family recipes that can be gathered and shared as a keepsake of the reunion.”
Eugene Klimaszewski
Eugene Klimaszewski has devoted his career to finding effective security tools to prevent crime and keep communities safe. He is the founder and driving force behind Mammoth Security Inc., an organization providing advanced and effective security solutions throughout the Northeast –from the esteemed U.S. Coast Guard Academy to urban municipalities, businesses, and homes.
“On your next family reunion, why not host a Family Talent Showcase?It’s a fantastic way for family members of all ages to showcase their unique talents and passions, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks, or sharing valuable skills.
It goes beyond mere entertainment; it celebrates individuality and the diverse talents that make each family extraordinary. Younger generations can discover and appreciate the hidden talents of their elders, and vice versa.
The aim is to foster a supportive atmosphere where we prioritize appreciating each other’s abilities and interests rather than focusing on competition. It’s a moment for family members to stand by one another, exchange stories, and craft lasting memories.
Furthermore, it provides an excellent opportunity to strengthen family bonds, share laughter, and potentially uncover previously undiscovered talents within the family.”
Vitaliy Kharitonov
Vitaliy Kharitonov is the owner of ShirtZilla, an e-commerce website based on niche-specific shirt designs. Vitaliy had a passion for designing and creating unique t-shirt graphics and turned it into a business.
“Putting together a Heritage Potluck Picnic is a great idea for a family reunion.An interesting and delectable buffet may be created if each family member brings a dish that symbolizes their ethnicity or ancestry.
Develop a feeling of kinship with your ancestry by sharing family foods, customs, and tales. Display cultural items such as pictures, relics, or mementos from many facets of your family’s history to enhance the experience.
This concept fosters a closer bond between family members by celebrating your family’s distinctive past as well as learning about, appreciating, and sharing other cultures.”
Nick Valentino
Nick Valentino is the VP of Market Operations of Bellhop.
“One of the best spots to host a good family reunion is a campground.
First of all, they’re much more affordable than most other large gathering spots.You can easily find a space to accommodate a few hundred of your closest relatives for less than $200, especially if you book in advance and avoid the busy season.
They’re also flexible. People can show up for the day, or make camp and stay for a week.
You’ll have an easy time feeding everyone if you take a potluck approach, and you can also easily organize outings for activities like hiking, fishing, and hanging out by the beach.”
Gary Gray
Gary Gray is the co-founder and CEO of CouponChief, a couponing platform that helps you manage your personal finances and become a more effective saver. With a deep understanding of consumer habits and spending, he focuses on guiding people toward mindful purchasing decisions and long-term financial wellness.
“When it comes to family reunions, my favorite idea centers around shopping!But not just any shopping; I’m talking about a savings scavenger hunt.
Each family group gets a budget, and the race is on to see who can stretch it the furthest. We’re out there couponing, hunting for deals, and even bargaining with shopkeepers.
The best part is watching the kids get in on the action. They start to realize that saving money can be almost as fun as spending it.
We all regroup at the end of the day to compare notes and show off our ‘wins.’ Not only do we all have a blast, but we leave with some lasting lessons about the value of a smart buy.”
Ann Martin
Ann Martin is the Director of Operations of CreditDonkey.
“There’s nothing quite like revisiting old stomping grounds to make a family reunion truly special.
A few years ago, my grandfather turned 95, and we did a little research and rented out the city park in the tiny town where he was born. The population was about 2,000 when he lived there and it’s about 200 now.
It’s just a speck on the Nebraska prairie, but we absolutely filled the place. We hired the town’s only restaurant to do the catering (with plenty of advanced notice) and filled up every hotel for a three-town radius.
Grandpa even ran into one old friend of his who still lives in town. It was a really special experience for all of us to see where he came from and celebrate it.”
Family Reunion Ideas Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make a family reunion special?
Personalize the event with family traditions and shared memories. Include activities that cater to all ages, create custom memorabilia like t-shirts or photo albums, and perhaps incorporate a theme that resonates with your family’s heritage or interests.
What do families do at family reunions?
Activities often include group meals, outdoor games, storytelling, and photo sessions. Family reunions are also a time for catching up, reminiscing, and celebrating milestones. Some families might engage in sightseeing, themed parties, or cultural rituals depending on their traditions and interests.
How long should a family reunion last?
The duration varies depending on family preferences and logistics. A single day is common for local gatherings, while weekend-long reunions are ideal for families spread across wider distances.
Longer reunions provide more time for bonding but require more planning and may not be feasible for everyone’s schedules.
What food is good for family reunions?
Opt for versatile and crowd-pleasing dishes like barbecue, sandwiches, salads, and casseroles. Potlucks are popular, allowing family members to contribute their favorite dishes.
Consider dietary restrictions and preferences, offering a mix of meat, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. For larger reunions, catering can be a convenient choice. At Edible Arrangements®, you can choose from an incredible selection of party platters and dessert boards to keep the whole family satisfied throughout your event.
