Planning a Family Reunion

The kids are out of school, the weather’s wonderful and your grandparents’ silver anniversary is coming up—this may be the ideal time for a family reunion! In our go-go society people are ever mobile, moving further away and staying in touch through modern means such as email and friend sites. But that’s no substitute for the real thing.

It all starts with a plan. Start by making a list of your family tree. Depending on the size of your family you may need to plan a couple of weeks or a couple of years in advance. Take a democratic approach when picking dates and locations. Send some suggestions and have family members vote for their preference. Sometimes one date/location won’t work for all, but keeping everyone involved in the process avoids hurt feelings.

Fun and games. Since ages vary dramatically plan activities that engage everyone at different levels of activity. Include a raffle ticket with everyone’s invitation and give away inexpensive presents ranging from the humorous to the practical. Introduce retro favorites to a new generation with limbo and potato sack races. Set up volleyball, badminton and croquet sets and position tables and chairs with popular games that anyone can join. Connect 4 anyone?

It’s not a reunion without the right food. You’ve finally managed to get everyone in one place but nothing binds so much as the quintessential family supper. Make dishes that celebrate your ethnic heritage or if your background is a melting pot of cultures reflect your diversity with a variety of foods. Include a few easy-to-make dishes that travel well like a Zesty Chicken and Rice Casserole and the Heartland Vegetable Bake. Don’t forget fun desserts such as cupcakes and cookies that are easy to eat and very portable. Whether you opt for a down home barbeque or a sophisticated affair, your family reunion will inspire stories for generations to come.