Now that you know why you want to have a reunion, whom you are inviting, your budget, and the type of reunion you will have, you can begin planning activities and games to do during the actual reunion.
Icebreakers: Icebreakers are a good way to get your relatives mingling. Some ideas include introducing yourself by saying how you got your name, a game of truth-or-dare, without the dare, or a scavenger hunt to find relatives that have something in common with each other (same color eyes, your cousin, same age, same birth month, etc.).
Family Memorabilia: I am assuming that if you are reading this blog, you must have an interest in genealogy, and therefore probably have accumulated a certain amount of family research, photos, and memorabilia. Use the reunion as your chance to show them all off! You could also ask guests to bring their own memorabilia to show off.
Time Capsule: Ask each guest to bring an item of some meaning with them to the reunion. Some ideas of what to bring may include a photo, letter, heirloom, or something to signify a favorite hobby. Put all of the items into a time capsule. Decide when you will open the capsule: in 10 years, 15 years, 25 years, etc. Include instructions with the capsule (not inside it) for someone in the future, and store it away safely. It could also be fun to hold another reunion at the time when the capsule will be opened.
Games: Some games you may want to include at your family reunion include sac races, three-legged races, egg toss, tug-of-war, musical chairs, family trivia, a scavenger hunt, and board games.
Kids: If there will be any kids at your family reunion, be sure they are entertained as well. Create a kids table that is stocked with coloring books, crayons, craft supplies, puzzles, sidewalk chalk, and toys. If it is a hot day, you may also want to supply a wading pool, water guns, or a hose.
Note: The photo above is a reunion held during the early 1970’s for my great grandparent’s, George and Elizabeth Baker, anniversary.