Family Reunion Activities
Planning a get together for extended family is well worth the effort. Cousins get to catch up on each other's lives, funny family stories are shared, and everyone gets to ooh and aah over the latest little additions. Although all that is really required is a place to get together, family reunions are a lot more enjoyable when there are plenty of fun activities planned.
Make it a Party!
Party rental companies offer a nice variety of equipment to make your family reunion fun and memorable. It's wise to rent canopies and large tents since you can never quite depend on what the weather might do. Additionally, providing a shaded area is important, especially for the youngest and oldest family members. In addition to canopies, tables, and chairs, party supply companies also rent entertainment equipment such as large inflatable bouncers, slides, ball pits, and moonwalks so that kids (and those who are kids at heart) can jump and burn off excess energy. Another popular party rental is a dunk tank. Remember seeing those at the fair? Kids will all enjoy trying to hit the target to send their favorite uncle in for a quick dip in the chilly water!A current favorite of many party planners are chocolate fountains. If you are unfamiliar with them, they provide a constant pouring of melted chocolate designed for dipping cut up fruit, cookies, small chunks of cake, pretzels, and other treats. Who doesn't love chocolate?
The Guest List
It's important to get a good idea of just how many people will be attending the reunion. For small groups, a few activities are all that will be needed, but if you are hosting a large get-together, be sure to have an assortment of activities available. Also, try to plan games and activities that will appeal to people of varying ages and physical abilities. It's good to have some active games, but be sure to offer sedentary activities, as well.Make sure that you have some games and activities for all ages. Horseshoes are fun for teens and adults, but the younger family members need something to do, too. Consider a Diaper Derby or Toddler Olympics and pass out small prizes to the winners. Some activities are terrific ways to get several generations playing together. A water balloon toss, scavenger hunt, or wheelbarrow race are good examples of games that work well for adults and kids.
Active Game Ideas
- Volleyball
- Softball
- Sack Races
- Egg Toss
- Tug-of-war
- Croquet
- Musical Chairs
- Three Legged Races
Sedentary Game Ideas
- BINGO
- Family Trivia
- Card Games
- Chess or Checkers
- Puzzles and Board Games
Make Food Fun
Since the goal of the day is fun, everyone can relax a bit about their normal rules regarding sweets and messes. Consider setting up an ice cream sundae bar where family members can create their own sweet teats. Offer plenty of toppings, such as fresh fruit, chocolate and caramel sauces, gummy bears, colored sprinkles, wafer cookies, and whipped cream.Final Thoughts
If you are having a large gathering, it can be helpful to hire a few people to keep everyone entertained. Consider a professional clown, balloon artist, caricature artist, or face painter to keep your family reunion fun.Some families plan a talent show to give their kids a chance to show off a bit. Each child can plan a song, dance routine, speech, or other activity that will highlight their special skills. And remember, it's just for fun, so everyone wins first place!
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