How You Can Gather Together Grandparents, Grandkids and Families

By Maria King, Founder/President of Event Crazy and grandmother extraordinaire.

Few things are more fun about events than the “gathering together” element. That’s not to say that the ancillary benefits like rides, entertainment and food aren’t important, but they are the fringe benefits of gathering, not the reason. The reason for the gathering is what we are addressing here. What is it that managed to get everyone to come together in the first place? That typically is the theme of the event but it can also be the competition at the event.

This week there is a “gathering” of competitors in a boat regatta which features speed boat races. Also air races giving pilots a chance to compete in different categories of planes takes place as well. In addition there is a Pow-Wow featuring over 30 different competitions for prize money of $100,000+, a roundup of rodeo stars competing for money and bragging rights, and even a car corral with class and type categories.

But it’s not all just about the competitors. Even those attending can be a gathering of sorts by being drawn together by a theme. A convention is a well-defined gathering. For instance, we have a Fireman’s convention coming up this week. That is a gathering and a competition within their own group. The Morton Pumpkin Festival is a gathering of lovers of all things pumpkin and orange.(they have a parade of people all wearing orange) It salutes the town for producing over 80% of the world’s canned pumpkin. If you ever spent time wrestling with cooking a real pumpkin before the pure pumpkin in a can, you will know why this is significant. If you haven’t, trust me on the fact that people like me who have, would have created this event themselves if the town of Morton hadn’t decided to do it. I am not sure everyone at the event is there for that reason but it would be the reason I would be there. Especially since I don’t look very good in orange!

Near you this week I am sure many events will feature a theme which will bring out attendees or a competition which will bring out participants. Either way, it will be an event worth a visit whether you want to be part of the event or an observer of the event. Once you check out the list of events for this week it will help you decide. And remember that it’s always more fun if you gather someone up to take along to share the experience with you.

National Championship Air Races

Sep 11, 2013 – Sep 15, 2013

Reno/Stead Air Base Reno, NV89506

Since 1964, race for the gold, aerobatic performers, assault jump, military jets, stunt planes and much more. The true Air Race experience is in the sights and sounds. It’s the breathtaking aircraft, the roar of an engine. It’s the take-off, the landing, the high speeds and the competition.
150,000 Attendees

On the Waterfront Swap Meet and Car Corral

Sep 14, 2013

Downtown Saint Ignace, MI49781

Since 1991, this car show features a swap meet, toy show, a big boy cruise and party. There is an expanded show area with Corvette and Chevy national judging. The Big Custom Show features 49-50-51 Mercurys and there is also a truck show and street rod awards given.
100,000 Attendees

Grapefest

Sep 12, 2013 – Sep 15, 2013

Historic Downtown Grapevine Grapevine, TX76099

Fall festival honoring grapevines namesake and the Texas wine industry. Peoples choice wine tasting classic, vintage and classic car show, live entertainment, arts and crafts, carnival and more.
120,000 Attendees

Castro Valley Fall Festival

Sep 14, 2013 – Sep 15, 2013

Downtown Castro Valley, CA94546

Since 1972. This year’s event will feature live entertainment, arts and crafts, wine, food, fun, children’s activities and a classic car show. The festival will include more than 150 booths. They will include jewelry and other handcrafted items and artwork. In addition, representatives from local nonprofit agencies and businesses will be represented. Several music groups will fill the air as they perform on three stages. Join us for this free weekend festival in the heart of the greater Bay Area. You won’t want to miss it!
60,000 Attendees

Morton Pumpkin Festival

Sep 11, 2013 – Sep 14, 2013

Jefferson School Grounds Morton, IL61550

Since 1967. As the home of Libby’s Pumpkin, Morton is proud to say that over 80% of the world’s canned pumpkin is processed right here. Each September, in celebration of the pumpkin canning season, Morton hosts the Morton Pumpkin Festival. Come and celebrate with us!
50,000 Attendees