Family members come in all different ages, interests, abilities, and schedules. That's what makes planning a family gathering challenging. The big question at the center of a family gathering is what can we plan that everyone can afford, do, and enjoy?
As I think of this today, I'm thinking of family gatherings that have been just-right, events where most were happy having fun with one another. What did those events include?
The Picnic
As a young child, we had lots of good times when we got together with our siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles for a picnic. Basically a public park was chosen and everyone gathered there. People brought their own food, and we spent the day playing games, exploring the park, and having lots of fun.
The Hike
Our family has had lots of fun with hiking. That too has been rather simple. A date is chosen, a hike planned, and everyone gathers, completes the hike, and shares a meal at the end of the event. Those who cannot or do not want to hike, explore other areas while people hike, then join us for dinner.
Camping
Our big camping trips have been somewhat less successful due to the complexity of making reservations, setting up the tents, cooking the food, and weather. I've found that people's comfort level with camping can be a challenge when it comes to big family camping trips, so for the most part, we kept those events smaller rather than including all.
Bike Trips, Triathlons, and Races
These generally work best if it's a small capable group that's competing or if it's a manageable event that many can take part in.
Cook-Outs and Parties
These are lots of fun especially if they are scheduled to celebrate a significant event.
Travel
Personally I find travel a lot more fun when it's a smaller group than a very large group. The best large group travel I've done is when we've chosen an all-inclusive with lots of activity that appeals to everyone. When you can pay for everything up front, there's no need to split checks or deal with money during the trip which makes it a lot easier too.
In general, family events work best if you stick to good etiquette, do your part, and keep it simple. That leaves time to enjoy one another's company and create traditions that last.
As I think of this today, I'm thinking of family gatherings that have been just-right, events where most were happy having fun with one another. What did those events include?
The Picnic
As a young child, we had lots of good times when we got together with our siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles for a picnic. Basically a public park was chosen and everyone gathered there. People brought their own food, and we spent the day playing games, exploring the park, and having lots of fun.
The Hike
Our family has had lots of fun with hiking. That too has been rather simple. A date is chosen, a hike planned, and everyone gathers, completes the hike, and shares a meal at the end of the event. Those who cannot or do not want to hike, explore other areas while people hike, then join us for dinner.
Camping
Our big camping trips have been somewhat less successful due to the complexity of making reservations, setting up the tents, cooking the food, and weather. I've found that people's comfort level with camping can be a challenge when it comes to big family camping trips, so for the most part, we kept those events smaller rather than including all.
Bike Trips, Triathlons, and Races
These generally work best if it's a small capable group that's competing or if it's a manageable event that many can take part in.
Cook-Outs and Parties
These are lots of fun especially if they are scheduled to celebrate a significant event.
Travel
Personally I find travel a lot more fun when it's a smaller group than a very large group. The best large group travel I've done is when we've chosen an all-inclusive with lots of activity that appeals to everyone. When you can pay for everything up front, there's no need to split checks or deal with money during the trip which makes it a lot easier too.
In general, family events work best if you stick to good etiquette, do your part, and keep it simple. That leaves time to enjoy one another's company and create traditions that last.