There’s nothing like a Black family reunion, the matching T-shirts, the line dances, the homemade plates, and the joy of being surrounded by generations of love. Whether it’s a yearly tradition or something your family is bringing back, reunions remind us of who we are and where we come from.
These gatherings didn’t start as simple social events. After slavery, newly freed Black people searched for family members they’d been separated from, placing ads in newspapers, traveling by foot, and asking strangers for any leads. Reuniting meant reclaiming what was stolen: our people, our names, our history. Over time, those sacred efforts turned into what we now know as the family reunion.
If you’re planning one (or thinking about it), here are 7 tips to help you make it memorable, meaningful, and full of joy:
1. Pick a Yearly Theme (Optional, but Fun!)
Choosing a theme gives your reunion a fun focus. It’s a great way to inspire T-shirt designs, games, decorations, and even menus. Not necessary, but definitely adds flavor.
2. Share the Family History
Every reunion should include a moment to reflect on the legacy. Create a slideshow or visual family tree, and invite elders to speak or share memories. Consider printing a simple handout or recording oral histories. People should leave with more knowledge than they came with.
3. Get Those Matching T-Shirts Ready
T-shirts are more than tradition, they’re a symbol of unity. Whether they feature your last name, family tree, or an motto, matching shirts set the tone for the entire event. Be sure to collect sizes early and place your order well in advance so nobody gets left out.
@_ebonisworld0 They said Black family reunions are down 47% since 1997… clearly, they haven’t met the John & Jennie Davis crew! 250+ pulled up to Nashville, Tennessee like we never missed a beat. 🎶 45 years strong — same love, new drama, and some cousins who don’t know how to play Spades ♠️🤣 #DavisFamilyReunion #familyreunion #blackfamily #family #reunion #nashville #love #goodvibes #essencemagazine #blacktiktok #blacklove ♬ original sound – Eboni
4. Capture the Memories
Don’t let the reunion go by without something to remember it by! Be sure to organize a few group photos by generation or family branch, you’ll thank yourself later.
5. Pick a Meaningful Location
From church halls to family land to local parks, pick a space that feels right for your crew. Make sure it’s accessible for elders and has room for the kids to play. If the spot holds family history, even better.
@akilahrelefordgould Um…do you think Stack the horse knows he’s famous? Thanks for coming to my family reunion!!! Feeling so proud 🥹🤠🤎🪲🌹🥜🇺🇸🐎 #familyreunion #blackgirltiktok #mississippi #farmlife #southerncooking #countrygirl #countrylife ♬ Before I Let Go – Frankie Beverly
6. Keep the Kids Engaged
Get creative with scavenger hunts, talent shows, or storytelling circles led by elders. The more involved the kids are, the more likely they’ll want to help carry the torch when it’s their turn.
7. Let the Food Be a Celebration Too
Food is part of the family story. Whether you go potluck, catered, or a mix of both, aim for a menu that honors your family’s roots and traditions.
@bria.ashlee My family reunion was this past weekend! I was so in the moment that I didn’t get a lot of content. It was a great time and the foooood? Babyyy, 10/10! #familyreunion #blackfamilyreunion #family #familytime #growingupblack #blackfamily #CapCut ♬ Family Reunion – The O'Jays
Before everyone leaves, gather for a closing moment. Say a prayer, give flowers to your elders, and let folks share what the day meant to them. It’s also the best time to start planning the next reunion while everyone’s still energized.
Because Black family reunions aren’t just about looking back, they’re about planting seeds for what’s next. The stories, the hugs, the history, they stay with us. And if we’re lucky, they’ll outlive us too.
Cover photo: 7 Tips to Plan a Meaningful and Memorable Black Family Reunion / Photo Credit: iStock