Family Reunions Become Less Common

Families don’t get together like they used to.

A survey of two thousand folks found one in five have never had a family reunion, and they wish they did.

Three-fourths have lost touch with a family member they wish they hadn’t.

28% of Americans do get all the kin together once a year for a good old traditional family reunion, but that's barely one in four of us.  

In the Houston area, the Pierce Ranch House, a 32,000 acre historic working ranch where Braford cattle roam among live oak trees just off Highway 59 an hour south of Houston houses 50 guests and owner Brooks Armour Diesel says hosts family reunions and get-togethers.  She can sympathize with the challenges a family reunion presents, and offers solutions. “I think it’s really because people’s lifestyles have gotten so busy that it’s really hard to get the large number of extended family together and coordinate schedules so one day or one weekend works for everyone,” she says.  But Texas hospitality, history and gorgeous scenery can be an enticing lure.  “It’s been in operation since the mid-1850’s, and we still have an agri-business operation, in addition to the venue.  The venue is located on our historic ranch house which was built by Shanghai Pierce in 1886.”  And they have hunting.

What goes in to a successful family reunion?  The poll conducted by Pit Boss Grills, a company that makes grills for cookouts, found grilling was listed as the number two (42%) most essential element to a great family reunion.  Food was number one at 84%, an outdoor setting third at 38%, followed by games (33%) and alcohol (25%).

As for what people expect, a flood of memories and reminiscing about old times is at the top of the list (50%), ahead of eating too much (48%) and awkward political chatter (28%).

And though it’s a stereotype, there must be some truth about everyone’s funny uncle.  When asked who the worst joke-teller of the family is – hands down – it’s someone’s uncle.


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