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16 Fun Ways To Celebrate American Family Day

As the summer days begin to get shorter, families across the country observe American Family Day on the first Sunday of August. Originating in Arizona, it was first observed in 1977 and officially became a state holiday the following year. The holiday was created to highlight the significance and positive impact that family has on our lives. 

Why Do We Observe American Family Day?

Family is a precious gift that should be nurtured and appreciated rather than taken for granted. Unfortunately, spending time with family is often pushed to the wayside with the misconception that there will always be time for it later. 

“Life is indeed short. All of us are given the same hours in a day. What’s important is how we use those hours. How can you enjoy a happier family if you don’t have time together as a family?” — Dr. Kevin Leman

Celebrating American Family Day allows you to pause the rapid pace of today’s lifestyle filled with technology, impatience, and varying work schedules. It’s the quality of time spent, not the quantity — which creates memories that can last a lifetime and shape you and your loved ones into the people you become. 

Enjoy American Family Day With These Simple Yet Delightful Ideas

American Family Day isn’t about material gifts; it’s about spending meaningful time together. 

There are many ways to enjoy the day with your family:

1. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it outdoors.
2. Take a road trip.
3. Have a family barbeque.
4. Enjoy a family game night. Play board games, pictionary, charades, and even jigsaw puzzles.
5. Take a trip down memory lane. During your meal, go around the table and have each person share their favorite family memory.
6. Go to the park.
7. Visit a museum.
8. Spend time together virtually or by phone if your family is too far away. 
9. Go through old photo albums of your family history.
10. Arrange a scavenger hunt.
11. Put together some family trivia. 
12. Attend a sporting event. 
13. Go to the zoo or aquarium, or water park.
14. Make s’mores (safely) over a fire.
15. Get creative and crafty. Make something as a family — from drawing to coloring, painting, or decorating.
16. Cook together. Have everyone help out so each person can enjoy their favorite dish. From tacos to vegan pasta alfredo — spend the day preparing food and enjoying each other’s company.

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