Gathered Again

Bringing Families Together

Home » Family Reunions

Family Reunion Planning

 

If you're planning a family reunion, then you're in the perfect place. Whether you are looking for a family reunion planning checklist,  family reunion ideas, choosing a venue, writing the invitations, choosing the games or planning the menu, we have everything you need to plan the perfect family reunion.

Creative Family Reunion Activities: Fun Games and Activities for Families

By Gathered Again

Some family reunions may be more laid-back. They might be a gathering where everyone is happy to eat, catch up with each other, and discuss fun memories. Maybe spend some quality time talking about grandchildren and what family members are up to.

But more formal reunions require well-planned and coordinated activities. If you have extended family traveling from around the country, you want to create excitement and amazing memories. If people make travel arrangements to attend your event months in advance, you need a solid planning process and activities everyone will remember forever. So, let’s add some creative activities to your family reunion!

Choosing Creative Ideas For Family Reunion Activities

So as you already know, there is a lot that goes into every aspect of planning a family reunion, and planning fun activities is no exception! So as you start thinking of activities for your reunion, here are some things to consider:

Generally, activities should match the family reunion theme if you have one. For example, a Pirates of the Caribbean theme could include pirate-related activities. These would reinforce the theme while providing enjoyment for everyone (even the spectators). Examples might include:

  • treasure hunting
  • sword fights
  • a sea shanty sing off
  • pirate-related trivia questions
  • pirate board games
  • and a best-dressed pirate beauty pageant

Themes Shouldn’t Stifle Your Creativity

A theme is only a general guide and should not restrict you from doing other activities or family traditions that may not necessarily be in line with the theme but guests enjoy. For example, if you have an annual bonfire tradition on the last night of the reunion weekend, don’t hesitate to continue with that tradition even if you decide to try an “Under the Sea” theme this year.

Don’t Accidentally Exclude People

Activities should be age-appropriate and appeal to the broadest range of ages and backgrounds possible. To be on the safe side, always have a variety of activities. A variety of activities is essential, so no one is left behind or feels out of place because they cannot participate.

Challenging activities are acceptable for specific groups but have activities appropriate for guests of all ages, skill levels, and abilities.

Reunion Conversation Starters

We have an article with over 80 family reunion conversation starters you can reference. Leave a card at each table with a conversation starter. This is a fun way to get people chatting.

The best part of this game is that it doesn’t require much prep work! Just print out some cards, cut them, and place them on the table.

7 Team Activities

What do you get when you put a bunch of families into teams and have them face off against each other in funny and quirky games? You probably will discover someone’s hidden talent.

Time to get out those matching family reunion t-shirts you made because it’s time to face off in these creative team activities!

  • Giant Hide and Seek
  • Paintball
  • Obstacle Courses
  • Minute to Win It
  • Trivia Tournaments
  • Family Feud
  • Tug-of-War

10 Cooking and Eating Competitions

The key to a successful family reunion is food! But how do you turn food into activities? Recipes and secret ingredients abound in every family, and a reunion is an excellent way to put the spotlight on your treasured culinary delights.

Reunions around the major holidays (Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter) would be great opportunities for cooking showdowns; invite attendees who love to cook to a cooking competition where the rest of the guests can taste and decide the best.

Keep the atmosphere light and happy, so no one leaves feeling defeated! If possible, give awards and special recognition to all participants.

  • Pie Eating Contest
  • Chili Cook-Off
  • Iron Chef (Reunion Edition)
  • Hot Wing Challange
  • Children’s Bake Sale
  • Or let the competitors make their family’s favorite food.

Fun Idea: Parent / Child Dessert Bake-off!

Kids like to bake and whip up their favorite desserts, such as pies, cakes, and other sweet stuff. You can schedule an afternoon reunion activity where the adults can pass on their baking skills and knowledge to the next generation.

This is an excellent time for bonding, and you also pass on valuable knowledge to the children (and may learn some of their food preferences). This also takes care of desserts for some of the meals. The kids will enjoy tasting their baked creations and hearing the compliments.

Other Fun Food Activities:

  • Pizza Kitchen – Each contestant gets a chance to make their own pizza.
  • International Confections – Have each group bake a different regional confection, such as Baklava, Briouats, and Kulich.
  • Ice Cream Sundae Social – Have an ice cream social with every topping under the sun.

7 Quality Family Time Ideas: Family History Activities

Many younger generations would benefit from knowing their family history and genealogy. But, unfortunately, many don’t know simply because they have not had the opportunity to learn and discover their roots.

Activities can revolve around ancestors, lineage, and critical milestones that would give the youngsters a deeper appreciation of their heritage. Bring out the old photos and albums, and have adults and seniors share stories behind the photographs and introduce those in the photos who may no longer be around or have played significant roles in society.

If you have a funny story or favorite memory, this is a perfect time to share it. You can talk about the most special times in the history of your lineage. Maybe even have a Q&A session for the younger guests and the elders to give time to the elders for answering questions.

Scrapbook

The whole family can contribute various mementos, photos, documents, and other things that can be kept in a scrapbook. In the future, guests can add more stuff to the scrapbook for every family reunion event.

Ancestral Tour

You can schedule a trip to the family’s ancestral home or property. In addition, seniors can tell stories of their favorite childhood hangouts, hobbies, and hiding places.

Photo Slideshow

Family pictures are one of our most critical glimpses into the past! So take some time to assemble a slideshow you can play towards the end of the reunion. I think the slideshow at the end of the reunion feels like the most appropriate time frame.

Family Tree

Bring a family tree to show, or perhaps assemble one at the reunion! It’s fun to see how many cousins we have, and it’s great to see how far back your ancestry goes.

Time Capsule

As important as the past is, it’s also good to think about your future. Have guests bring one thing they would like to include in a time capsule that you will open in the future. This will make for a very fun activity to look forward to.

Photo Booth

Consider setting up a photo booth with props at the reunion if you have the space. This will give tons of opportunities for funny moments and memories.

Family Photo Album

Have everyone take photos at the reunion and put your favorite photos in a photo album. Then, the kids can look through the book later and reminisce over the memories.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, planning a reunion is hard work. There are many details to manage, from finding a venue to figuring out who’s bringing what food to deciding which activities to include. But it doesn’t have to be stressful. On the contrary, it can be pretty enjoyable.

All you need to plan a successful reunion is a bit of creativity and a willingness to keep things lighthearted. After all, nobody wants to spend their vacation stuck inside a stuffy room playing board games. So, why not make a list of creative family reunion activities that everyone can enjoy? These ideas will provide plenty of laughs, from bake-offs to trivia contests.

5 Fun Theme Parks For Families To E...
5 Fun Theme Parks For Families To Enjoy

Utah Family Reunion Ideas: Ideas And Tips For An Unforgettable Reunion

By Gathered Again

Hosting a family reunion is one of life’s greatest joys. Whether planning a large gathering or just wanting to get together with relatives who live far away, there are many ways to celebrate. But if you want something unique, consider hosting a family reunion in Utah. There are plenty of fun things to do in Utah, including state parks, scenic hiking trails, and great family attractions.

We have a ton of Utah family reunion ideas, as well as numerous tips for how to host an unforgettable family reunion. We also provide numerous tips on how to avoid big problems when planning a family reunion in Utah.

Tips For Choosing Family Reunion Dates

You’ll need to choose dates carefully when hosting a big family reunion. Most families gather around holidays such as Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. However, if you’re looking to hold a special event, you may wish to pick a date that doesn’t fall during a major holiday. That way, fewer people will travel during busy times and spend their holidays away from home. You might also be tempted to host your family reunion in Utah during summer because children are off from school, but summer is the busiest time for travel.

Things to Do Before You Book Lodging

Check for Large Events

Before you book any hotels or activities, you should check out the local area. Find out if there are any upcoming festivals or concerts that might draw crowds to your location. This is especially true in Salt Lake City, Ogden, and West Valley City, as that’s where the most significant concert venues are. Trust me; you don’t want to be in Salt Lake City during a Garth Brooks or Paul McCartney concert (unless you’re attending them, of course)!

Understand the Climate

Look into the weather forecast, too – especially if you’re planning on having outdoor activities. Make sure you know what kind of weather to expect before you schedule anything. Luckily, you don’t have to worry much about your event being rained out in Utah because Utah is one of the driest states in the United States, but snow is still something you need to consider.

Where to Stay

When selecting a hotel, always ask whether the distance between the airport and the family reunion location is convenient. Many airports offer shuttle buses, but if yours does not, you’ll need to rent a car or take public transportation. Some cities also offer shuttles directly from the airport to certain areas.

Transportation Options

Once you select a place to stay, you’ll need to decide how you plan to get there. Public transportation options vary depending on the size of the city and the destination. If you’re flying in from another state, you may want to consider renting a vehicle instead of taking public transit. Consider renting a car for your trip, or even staying near the airport. If you don’t want to rent a vehicle, ensure that cabs, Uber, Lyft, or some other form of transportation is available and services the areas you’ll be traveling to.

Utah Family Reunion Accommodations

From hotels to resorts, and cabins to camping, here are some great tips to consider when choosing your family reunion accommodations:

Choose Accommodations Based On Location of Your Reunion and Activities

If you plan to do any hiking or skiing, choose the accommodation that offers access to trails. If you plan to attend concerts or plays, check to see if there are hotels near the venue. Perhaps you’ll use a hotel’s event rooms to host your family reunion.

Choosing Hotels Based on Location and Time of Year

You may not know where to stay until after choosing your family reunion dates. However, you should choose hotels based on the location of your reunion and the time of year. For instance, if you’re planning to attend a family reunion in July, you might consider choosing a place near the beach. Or, if you’re hosting a family reunion in February, you might prefer a hotel closer to ski resorts.

Additionally, hotel rooms vary greatly depending on location. For example, a hotel near a ski resort may charge significantly more than one near a state park. Also, consider whether you prefer a quieter hotel or one close to restaurants and attractions.

Reserve Camp Sites and RV Sites Ahead of Time

Campgrounds and RV parks are usually booked up months ahead, especially if you’re trying to get a group of close sites. Most campgrounds offer discounts for booking multiple nights. Some allow reservations online, and others require advance bookings.

Finding Cabin Rentals

Cabin rentals are another great option for families looking to get away from it all. They range from rustic cabins to luxury vacation homes. Many cabin rental companies offer unique accommodations such as log cabins, yurts, and treehouses.

There are many ways to find cabin rentals. One way is to use a local vacation rental service, and there are many for Utah. Another option is to go directly to individual owners who rent their cabins out. Owners often advertise their properties on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and other classified advertising websites.

Renting Houses on Airbnb and VRBO

Airbnb and VRBO are popular ways to rent a house or apartment for short stays. Both platforms provide detailed descriptions of each property and allow renters to rate their experience.

The Best Places To Host A Reunion

Utah has many beautiful locations perfect for hosting a family reunion. From national parks to historical landmarks, there are numerous options available. Utah State Parks is one of the best places to hold a family reunion. They offer everything from camping to swimming, making them ideal for any occasion.

Family Reunions At Utah State Parks

Utah has some amazing state parks, and they also happen to be the perfect family reunion venues. As of this writing, the Utah State Parks website has 46 state parks listed throughout the state.

Each park offers visitors something unique and special. From hiking trails to waterfalls, there is no shortage of things to do at any of these beautiful locations. State parks offer camping, cabin accommodations, and even RV hookups. They also provide access to fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking.

The 5 Closest State Parks to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

Locations close to the airport are incredibly convenient for family reunions. Because of that, I’m listing the five closest state parks to the Salt Lake City International Airport.

Great Salt Lake State Park

Distance from Airport: 15 miles

This state park is only 15 miles from the SLC international airport, about a 20-minute drive.

This state park offers boat rentals, public viewpoints of the Great Salt Lake, and boat accessibility. The lake, whose salinity ranges from 2 to 7 times greater than seawater, is also a popular tourist destination for bird-watching.

East Canyon State Park

Distance from Airport: 37 miles

East Canyon Reservoir is tucked away in the mountains of northeast Utah, just south of Redrock Peak. Boaters enjoy its calm waters while fishermen come here to catch bass, trout, and crappie. Campers come here to explore the area and relax. But there is another reason why East Canyon Reservoir is unique—it holds a lot of history!

Jordanelle State Park

Distance from Airport: 42 miles

Jordanelle State Park is located just north of Heber Valley in Wasatch County. It features three distinct recreation areas: Hailstone, Rock Cliff, and Ross Creek. These areas provide various recreational opportunities, including picnicking, camping, and boating. If you’re looking for something different, try your luck at fishing or hiking. You’ll also find plenty of places to explore around the park.

Rockport State Park

Distance from Airport: 42 miles

Rockport State Park offers fishing, boating, skiing, and camping. There are five developed campgrounds and primitive sites available. You can also rent an RV or tent site. Ice fishing is allowed during the winter months.

Antelope Island State Park

Distance from Airport: 46 miles

Hike through the woods and past lakes and streams, then stop at one of the many primitive campgrounds scattered throughout the park. Spend your nights under the stars, listening to the sounds of crickets and owls while you enjoy the view. Take a dip in the lake or just relax on the beach. If you’re lucky enough to stay overnight, you’ll wake up to see a glorious sunrise.

Other Parks Worth Mentioning

While the above five parks are located closest to the Salt Lake City Airport, they are not the most famous of the parks in Utah. Here is a list of parks you should consider if traveling around Utah isn’t a concern:

  1. Zion National Park – Not only is this the most famous park in Utah, but it’s also one of the most famous in the United States. It is home to the famous “Big Bend,” a famous turn in the Virgin River. Overflowing with spectacular scenery, this park will take your breath away.
  2. Arches National Park – Home to the world-famous “Delicate Arch,” Arches National Park is a must-visit for anyone who wants to see the best of what Utah offers.
  3. Bryce Canyon National Park – Bryce Canyon National Park is located in Bryce, Utah. The park features hoodoo towers, colorful sandstone cliffs, and deep slot canyons. Visitors can hike through the park, climb its many trails, and enjoy the views from the overlooks.
  4. Canyonlands National Park – This gorgeous park features the famous Mesa Arch and the Island in the Sky district, which offers terrific scenic views.

Things You Can Do At The Park

You can enjoy many activities at Utah state parks and other parks around Utah. Some of the highlights include:

  • Hiking – Enjoy the beauty of Utah’s natural surroundings by taking a hike.
  • Boating – Many parks feature boat rentals, so you can take in Utah’s gorgeous views from a perspective most will never experience!
  • Fishing – Catch fish in the lakes and streams located throughout the park system.
  • Camping – Spend time outdoors under the stars in one of the campgrounds located throughout the park system.
  • Swimming – Take advantage of hot water springs at destinations like Meadow Hot Springs, the Red Reef natural water slides, or swim in the blue waters of the Sand Hollow reservoir.
  • Horseback Riding – Ride horses along scenic trails throughout the park system, or take lessons from experienced guides.
  • Kayaking – Explore the waterways located near the parks, or rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the area yourself.

Utah Amusement Parks

There are several amusement parks located throughout the state that offer fun for all ages. Here’s a list of some of the best ones to visit:

Lagoon Amusement Park – Farmington, UT

Families love this park because they offer something for everyone. There are rides for kids, adults, and those looking for an adrenaline rush. Lagoon-A-Beach waterpark offers fun for all ages. And if you’re looking for entertainment, they’ve got plenty of shows and events throughout the year.

Cowabunga Bay Water Park – Draper, UT

Cowabunga Bay is an outdoor water park located in Draper, Utah. It features 11 slides, a lazy river, and inflatable spinning spheres. There is also a restaurant called Cowabunga Grill.

Evermore Park – Grove, UT

Evermore is an immersive experience unlike any other. You will step into a world of play for everyone, immersed in a fantasy medieval village of imagination. Enjoy delicious foods and treats while exploring interactive games and adventures like no other.

Splash Summit Water Park – Provo, UT

Splash Summit Resort is the former Seven Peaks Waterpark in Provo. It features over 15 attractions, including a lazy river, wave pool, tube slides, and water slides. They also have a few food stands to choose from.

Boondocks Food & Fun: Kaysville – Kaysville, UT

Boondock’s Food & Fun is an all-season family fun center in Kaysville, Utah. They offer a full-service restaurant, arcade games, bowling alley, laser tag, bumper boats, miniature golf, go-karts, batting cages, roller ball, a huge arcade, and the Kiddie Cove indoor playground.

Family Reunion Activities

While deciding where to go and what to do, you should also consider the types of activities that would appeal to your guests. Are there sports teams nearby? Is there a golf course nearby? Are there museums or art galleries close by? There are plenty of ways to entertain your guests, so try to come up with a few ideas.

Make sure you check out our family reunion activity resources, including:

Fun Ways to Celebrate Your Family Reunion

There are plenty of ways to celebrate a family reunion. Some ideas include games, themes, events, and cook-offs. Games such as relay races, tug-of-war, and horseshoe tournaments are fun ways to get everyone involved. Theme parties are another great way to bring out the creative side of each person attending. And finally, there are always food competitions!

Some examples of fun ways to celebrate a family reunion include:

Games

There are many board game options available today. Many families enjoy playing Scrabble or Monopoly. Other games such as Trivial Pursuit, Connect Four, and Uno are also popular. For larger reunions, you can consider games like family reunion bingo or look at our giant list of over 100 family reunion games.

Theme Parties

Have a theme party! Choose a theme that all members of the family can participate in. Examples of themes might include wild west, carnival, various decades (the 50s, 60s, 70s, etc.), superheroes, or periods such as medieval times or the renaissance. Check out our list of over 20 family reunion themes for even more theme ideas. Theming your reunion also makes planning your family reunion playlist.

Also read: 30 Great Songs For Your Family Reunion.

Talent Shows

Another way to celebrate a family reunion is to hold a talent show. Everyone has talents that they can share with their friends and family. Maybe there is someone in the family who plays guitar, sings, dances, juggles, does magic tricks, or acts. They could perform during the talent show. Here are some fun family talent show ideas.

Cook-offs

Cooking competitions are another fun way to celebrate family reunions. Each person prepares a dish using ingredients provided by the host. Then, each family member votes on his/her favorite dish. The winning dish is then served at the next reunion. Here are some excellent cooking competition theme ideas to try.

Movie Night

Watch movies together at a family reunion. Movies could be chosen based on the interests of the whole family. We have a great article that tells you my secrets to hosting a memorable family movie night!

Photo Contest

Have everyone take photos at the family reunion. Then, towards the end of the reunion, each family can submit their favorite photo for the whole reunion to vote on. The winner gets a prize. The best part of this idea: you can have everyone send you their photos, and you can assemble an online photo album of the whole event for people to enjoy and remember.

Swimming Party

Have one of the days be a “swimming party.” Utah is loaded with tons of gorgeous natural springs and hot springs. These are the perfect place for everyone to meet up and enjoy a fun day of swimming together.

Crystal Hot Springs – Honeyville, Utah

Crystal Hot Springs is located in Honeyville, Utah. It boasts the highest mineral content of all hot springs in the world. It is located just 69 miles North of Salt Lake City. Their pools are open year-round, so you can even enjoy them in wintertime, as you see people doing in this video:

Fifth Water Hot Springs – Springville, Utah

There are three beautiful waterfalls and several other natural wonders you can visit. There are several soaking pools you can enjoy.

Mystic Hot Springs – Monroe, Utah

Mystic Hot Springs, also known as Monroe Hot Springs, is located in Monroe, Utah. It offers fantastic surrounding views. This is a privately-owned location, and it’s often described as a “hippie campsite with a hot spring.”

Meadow Hot Springs – Meadow, Utah

Meadow Hot Springs is a fantastic place in Meadow, Utah. There are many different ways you can enjoy yourself there. If you’re looking for a nice swimming spot, then Meadows Hot Springs is worth checking out. Camping is also allowed here. Check out this great video that shows an overview of visiting:

Picnic

If the weather permits, why not host a picnic day? Bring food and drinks and set up a table or blanket under a tree or near a lake. Check out our family reunion picnic planning guide.

Campout

Set up campfires and cook s’mores around a bonfire. We have an article that gives you our top 5 tips for throwing a family reunion camping trip.

Conclusion

Planning a family reunion is no easy task. But once you’ve made your decisions, you’ll be able to relax knowing everything is taken care of. You’ll also be able to focus on enjoying your special occasion with your loved ones in the beautiful state of Utah.

Heartwarming Left-Right Game Stories for Your Family Reunion

By Gathered Again

There’s always at least a day in a year when we can celebrate and catch up with our relatives through family reunions. We usually celebrate it with a sumptuous meal, fun activities and games, and maybe even a fun karaoke session. We take this time as an opportunity to bond and strengthen our familial ties with one another. One game you can play for your family reunion is the Left-Right game. Usually, this is played during the Christmas season to exchange gifts. However, we can customize it, so we can play it during family reunions.

Playing the Left-Right Game on Your Family Reunion

There is only one way to play the Left-Right game. However, to make it more apt for a family reunion, we have a few ideas to adjust the game.

One Main Prize And Some Gag Gifts

One way to play this is to have one prize item while the others are dummies or gag gifts. The surprise of who gets the main gift is still a lot of fun, and you’re sure to get some laughs as people unveil the gag gifts they’ve received.

Too Many People? No Worries At All!

If you’re having a particularly large reunion, then having enough gifts might be too expensive. In that case, have one representative for each family play the game. Seeing who gets the prize, and who gets the dummy/gag gift is the fun part of the game.

You can also play this game the traditional way. Have each family bring a gift, and choose a representative to play the game. By the end of the story, everyone has a gift or prize to open. Playing the Left-Right game would surely bring a lot of laughter and excitement to your family reunion.

What makes this Left-Right game more interesting and fun is that you get to hear a story while playing. Your hearing and attention will also be tested, as you have to watch out for the cue words, telling you whether you should pass the prize to the person on your left or right.

How to Play

Gather everyone, and let them sit in a circle while holding their items for the game. The gamemaster tells a story, and the participants should be very attentive to which direction they would pass the gift. When they hear the word “left,” they must pass their gifts to the person on their left. The same goes for when they hear the word “right.” At the end of the story, whatever you’re holding is now yours. 

Left-Right Game Stories for Family Reunion

There are a lot of left-right game stories for different occasions and events that you could tweak and use for your family reunions. You can also opt to write your own left-right story. The goal of this story game is to include many “left” and “right” words in the story, while everyone is having fun and keeping the energy alive and kicking. 

You may also check out these two left-right game stories we’ve written for your upcoming family reunion.

Story #1: Spontaneous Family Reunion Stories by the Cliffords 

Today is a very special day for the Clifford (you may change the name) family. Lauren is very excited to see her relatives as they celebrate their annual family reunion. Since it’s their first time to visit their Aunt Jenny’s place, who is hosting this reunion, Lauren is tasked to give the right directions to her mom. 

She looked left and right, then right again before she signaled her mom to turn right on the next street. After a few left turns, they’re now on the highway. A little while after that, she can see several trees on her right while her baby brother Jack is fast asleep, and leaning on her right shoulder.

Mom suddenly asked, “Did Jack fall asleep already?”

“Yeah, he’s sleeping on my right shoulder, Mom.” Lauren replied.

If the navigation app is right, they are around thirty minutes away from Aunt Jenny’s. The call time is 12 noon, and it’s only 10:30 right now. So, they have enough time left before the actual reunion starts.

As she stared right at her window, Lauren got curious about her mom’s family reunions when she was little. So she asked, “Mom, what’s your fondest childhood memory of your family reunions?”

Mom thought about it for a while before answering. “Actually, almost every single day is a family reunion for me because your grandmother and her sister lived right next to each other. Your grandma Ellie lived two houses away on the left of your grandma Joy’s, while some of my cousins lived across the street back then.

“But, we still have big family reunions during Christmas because we all celebrate the holidays together. What made it more meaningful and special was that we celebrated it with our neighbor and her family.” 

Mom continued sharing her story as Lauren instructed her that the exit is on the next right.

“What do you mean, Mom? Did you invite them every year to celebrate the holidays? Didn’t they have a family to celebrate it with?” Lauren curiously asked.

“We considered them part of our family. Auntie Martha is what we called her. She had been like a mother to us, after all. She’d been with us all our lives. While we have a happier life thanks to Auntie Martha, she was always working to make ends meet.”

“Auntie’s family was not that well-off, you see. They didn’t have all the nice things we enjoyed. Sometimes, there wasn’t much left for her kids to have toys as you might enjoy.”

Oh, it’s the first time Mom shared about her Auntie Martha, and Lauren was touched by what her mom shared. “Yeah, we are very fortunate and lucky to have a comfy life, Mom. We’re not rich, yet we still have something left to share.” 

“That’s right. So, we always need to at least say a few thanksgiving prayers every now and then and share our blessings to those who are less fortunate.”

As they continued talking, Mom took the exit on the right, and, before they knew it, they’d arrived at their destination right on time.

The end.

Story #2: The Bears’ Family Reunion

The sun is out, birds are chirping, and we can’t wait to go outside and have some fun under the sun. Aside from being free from school to enjoy a vacation, this is also the right season for our family reunion. It’s the time of the year to visit Grandpa Bear and Grandma Bear and see all our relatives living in other states!

Papa Bear and Mama Bear left some invites months before for this annual event. Some of our relatives left their homes a bit early because they take the train to get to Grandma and Grandpa’s place—the home of the Bears family.

Our Grandpa Bear and Grandma Bear are the most excited grandparents in the whole wide world. They would wait for us to arrive right at their doorstep to welcome us with warm hugs and kisses.

“Hi, Grandpa Bear! Hello, Grandma Bear! We missed you! How are you guys doing?” I rushed right to where they’re standing after we left the car, parked on the sidewalk.

“Hey, sweetie. We’re doing alright. Come, let’s go inside and prepare for our family reunion!” Grandma Bear excitedly replied.

“Hello, Mama! Hello, Papa! Oh, I can smell the freshly baked apple pie right from the oven already! Yum!” Mama Bear greeted with glee.

I can sense her excitement with Grandma Bear’s apple pie. I swear she makes the best in town! The thickness of the crust is perfect, and its sweetness is just right for all ages.

“Oh, I hear a beep from outside. Maybe it’s your Auntie Janie Bear!” Grandpa Bear told my little brother Roby Bear. Grandpa left him on the couch, and headed to the patio to welcome Auntie Janie Bear and her family. 

We’re finally complete! I’m so happy!

Our Bear cousins came running right at Grandpa Bear, and hugged him tightly.

Auntie Janie Bear just came right on time for our family lunch. We had a sumptuous feast right before our eyes. There are sausages, cheese, grapes, and wine right beside bowl of punch. On the left is the main course. There’s a potluck of roasted chicken, pork kebabs, and steak. We also have scones, apple pie, and various pastries to choose from.

“Before we eat, let’s make a Bear-y Family memory!” Grandma Bear said, holding up her camera. She’s fond of keeping photos of our Bear family right by her bedside table. She looks at them from time to time when we’re not with her.

Grandpa Bear stood in the middle, while Grandma Bear was on his left. Our Mama Bear and Papa Bear stood behind us together with Auntie Janie Bear. Roby Bear and our cousin bears stood in front of the dining table so that we could be seen in the family picture.  

Uncle Jaime Bear set up the tripod and camera together with its timer. Right on cue, he rushed to his position beside Auntie Janie Bear. We squeezed in together to fit in the frame.

“Say Cheesy Bear!” Grandma Bear shouted right when the shutter came blinking fast, signaling it’s about to take a shot.

“CHEESY BEAR!”

We ate while catching up with stories and memories. Oh, what a wonderful day it is to be with my Bear family. I can definitely say with pride and glee that I’m a Bear, and we are right here for every Bear through thick or thin, no matter what.

By this time, I hope you’re holding the right gift for yourself because there’s nothing left in the story. I also hope you had fun, actively listening to the story and looking out for the right cues! Now, you may open the gift you are left with! Enjoy!

Exciting Left Right Family Reunion Game to Play

Surely, the room will be filled with laughter and enjoyment all throughout the Left-Right game, as it brings the family together while actively listening to the story. It adds sparkle and joy to your momentous family reunion.

Whether you end up with the dummy prize or a beautiful item, always remember that what matters most is the excitement and the fun of the game.

Family Reunion Bingo: The Ultimate Game To Bring Out Family Competition

By Gathered Again

Many people think that Bingo is just a game played by old ladies, but it doesn’t have to be that way. BINGO is a game that anyone can play, and it’s always a lot of fun. It is also a fantastic activity for family reunions and gatherings!

Suppose you plan a family reunion or any other event where many relatives will attend. In that case, you should plan at least one game of “Bingo.” This article will tell you more about how to play Bingo at a family reunion and provide a fun variation that makes it really fun.

How to Play Bingo

When it comes to family reunion games, this game is pretty close to ideal. The basic idea behind playing this game is simple:

You have a bingo card with randomized numbers between 1-75 organized in columns titled B, I, N, G, and O (thus spelling Bingo). A person designated as the caller will roll a cage full of numbered balls. The caller will pull a ball out with a number and call that number out.

For example, the caller might call out “B6.” If you have the number “6” in your “B” column, mark it off. Once you have 5 numbers in a straight line (vertical, horizontal, or diagonal), you stand up and call out “BINGO.”

Your card will then be checked against the caller’s calls, and if you have Bingo, you’re the game’s winner.

Variation: How To Play Family Reunion Names Bingo

The setup is the same for Family Reunion Names Bingo, except instead of numbers, you randomly place the names of family members attending your reunion on your bingo card.

This feels more put together and adds more cohesion to your Bingo game. It feels more like a family reunion game and not like you’re just throwing anything you can think of into the family reunion activities.

Make sure you only put one name per space, and you only use each name once per bingo card.

Additionally, the caller will fill their “bingo cage” with the names of the attendees on pieces of paper. As the caller draws a slip of paper with the name, you mark the names that happen to be on your game card. The first person to score 5 spots on their card in a row calls out BINGO!

If you’re doing Family Reunion Names Bingo, make sure your bingo cage is solid plastic. If you use a wire one, the names will likely fall through the holes between the wires.

To make things easier and super fun, check out these printable Family Reunion Names Bingo cards from our Printable shop. They are instantly downloadable.

Get the Family Reunion Name Bingo Cards

First: You Need Bingo Cards

You can order bingo cards online quickly, and you might find them in the game areas of some stores, but buying them online is probably the cheapest way to go.

You can use a bingo card generator to mock up some bingo cards, but you still have to print them. Another option is to save them as PDF files and use them as virtual bingo cards.

American Games 1on Blue Bingo Paper (500 Sheets)
American Games 1on Blue Bingo Paper (500 Sheets)
Buy on Amazon...

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Give the Deluxe Bingo Experience!

One thing that makes Bingo so much is just the general experience. Being in an open room with a bunch of people sitting at their tables eagerly awaiting to mark their numbers and shout “BINGO” is so much fun.

But here’s the question: how do you capture that same energy and feeling?

Assuming you have tables and chairs, you’ve won half the battle. What you need next are just a few accessories that will add to the overall experience. Of course, the Bingo accessories you buy are dictated by how many people attend your family reunion and your overall budget.

Bingo Cage

You want your game to be as fair as possible. That’s why it’s essential to have a bingo cage roller. Not only does it ensure random draws each time, but this is also the hallmark of a good bingo game. In addition, the sound of the cage rolling alone adds to the right atmosphere.

Regal Games – Deluxe Bingo Set – Includes Bingo Cage, Master Board, 18 Mixed Cards, 75 Calling Balls, Colorful Chips – Ideal for Large Groups, Parties
Regal Games – Deluxe Bingo Set – Includes Bingo Cage, Master Board, 18 Mixed Cards, 75 Calling Balls, Colorful Chips – Ideal for Large Groups, Parties
Buy on Amazon...

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Speaker System for the Caller

You’ll need some speakers and a microphone to call out each number. There are a few good sets on Amazon, but you might also have success using a Karaoke machine (just don’t play the music, of course). The size of the speaker can depend on the venue.

A personal speaker, microphone, or a megaphone might be sufficient for smaller events. However, it’s probably better to stick with an actual microphone with an amplified speaker for more significant events.

ION Audio Block Rocker Plus – Portable Bluetooth Speaker 100W W/Battery, Karaoke Microphone, AM FM Radio, Wheels & Telescopic Handle and USB Charging
ION Audio Block Rocker Plus – Portable Bluetooth Speaker 100W W/Battery, Karaoke Microphone, AM FM Radio, Wheels & Telescopic Handle and USB Charging
Buy on Amazon...

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Camera and Projector

If you want to be particularly cutting edge, setting a camera up and connecting it to a projector will add a “wow” factor that will surprise almost anyone. Of course, this can be accomplished in many ways. Still, most people use a GoPro camera and connect it directly to a projector using an HDMI cable. Here’s a video of a gentleman showing how hooking up an HDMI cable to a GoPro using a TV works.

This would work the same way, except you would connect the HDMI cable to a projector instead of using a TV.

GoPro HERO10 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 23MP Photos, 1080p Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
GoPro HERO10 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 23MP Photos, 1080p Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
Buy on Amazon...

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K UHD 3200 Lumens 240Hz 4.2ms Home Theater Projector with HDR, Auto Keystone, Dual HDMI, Sports and Netflix Streaming with Dongle on up to 300" Screen
ViewSonic PX701-4K 4K UHD 3200 Lumens 240Hz 4.2ms Home Theater Projector with HDR, Auto Keystone, Dual HDMI, Sports and Netflix Streaming with Dongle on up to 300" Screen
Buy on Amazon...

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Markers and Daubers

Don’t forget the bingo card markers or daubers. Daubers are a bit more old-school, but I actually prefer them. There are a few pros to circular plastic markers. Firstly, the markers are infinitely reusable. Another pro for the markers is that you aren’t marking up your bingo cards, which means your Bingo cards can also be reused.

I prefer the daubers because I have little kids who tend to bump tables, making the markers move on your card. Besides that, the plastic markers are pretty great!

JUNWRROW 500 Pieces 3/4 inch Transparent 6 Color Bingo Counting Chips with Bag
JUNWRROW 500 Pieces 3/4 inch Transparent 6 Color Bingo Counting Chips with Bag
Buy on Amazon...

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

DAB-O-INK 3oz Bingo Daubers – Mixed Colors – 12ct
DAB-O-INK 3oz Bingo Daubers – Mixed Colors – 12ct
Buy on Amazon...

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Final Thoughts

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Of course, you may not need all of these items. Still, suppose you’re looking to really wow everyone. In that case, you should definitely consider adding one or two of these items to your list.

At the end of the day, family reunions are about the family having fun catching up with each other. If this article helps make that possible even in the slightest way, then I consider that a huge success. I hope your family reunion is a huge hit, and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures!