For the past 11 years, Kathy Sudeikis has been the mastermind behind the annual family reunion known as “Nanapalooza.” This tradition was born out of a desire to bring together her six siblings and their families to honor the memory of their mother. What started with around 40 people has now grown to 74 attendees last summer, with one notable participant being Kathy’s son, actor Jason Sudeikis, who has never missed a Nanapalooza.
The event takes place near Michigan City, Indiana, and has become a beloved gathering for the entire family. Some members go to great lengths to ensure they can attend, such as driving from New York or even inducing labor to bring a newborn baby to the reunion.
As a seasoned travel professional working for Acendas Travel, Kathy Sudeikis has become the de facto leader of Nanapalooza. She emphasizes the importance of careful planning and coordination to ensure the success of multigenerational trips and reunions. One key piece of advice she offers is to tie the trip to significant family dates, as they have done with Nanapalooza in honor of their mother.
Choosing the right location, planning meals and activities, and managing finances are all crucial aspects of organizing a successful family reunion. By sharing responsibilities and creating lasting memories, families like the Sudeikis clan are able to come together year after year to celebrate their bond and honor their shared history.