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Quick Answer
A family reunion taco bar feeds all generations easily. Plan 3 tacos per adult and 1.5 per child, coordinate contributions across family branches, and include mild options for kids and elders. Budget $6-10/person for a complete spread.
Family reunions bring together everyone from babies to great-grandparents. A taco bar is the perfect solution—everyone can customize their plate, costs can be shared across family branches, and the interactive nature gives people something to do while they reconnect.
Why Tacos Work for Reunions
Multigenerational Appeal
- +Kids love simple cheese tacos
- +Elders can avoid spicy options
- +Dietary restrictions handled easily
- +Everyone finds something they like
- +No complicated plated service
Practical Benefits
- +Costs split across branches
- +Works indoors or outdoors
- +Scales to any family size
- +Interactive conversation starter
- +Everyone can help serve
Family Reunion Quantities
| Family Size | Tortillas | Protein | Budget* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 members | 100-130 | 8-12 lbs | $180-300 |
| 50 members | 165-215 | 14-18 lbs | $300-500 |
| 75 members | 250-325 | 20-25 lbs | $450-750 |
| 100 members | 330-430 | 28-35 lbs | $600-1,000 |
| 150+ members | 500-650 | 40-50 lbs | $900-1,500 |
*DIY costs at $6-10/person. Assumes 40% are children (who eat less). Split costs by family branch!
Splitting Costs Fairly
Fair Contribution Methods
Option 1: Per Head
Each family pays $5-10 per person attending. Simple and fair, though larger families pay more.
Option 2: By Branch
Split total cost equally among family branches (grandma's kids' families). Each branch coordinates internally.
Option 3: Assignment
Each branch brings specific items: Branch A = proteins, Branch B = tortillas & toppings, Branch C = drinks & desserts.
Option 4: Host Covers
Hosting family provides main meal; others bring sides, desserts, and drinks. Host rotates yearly.
Multigenerational Menu Tips
For Kids
- • Plain seasoned ground beef
- • Shredded cheese option
- • Mild salsa only
- • Quesadillas as alternative
- • Taco shells for fun
For Adults
- • Carnitas
- • Carne asada
- • Chicken tinga
- • Variety of salsas
- • Fresh jalapeños
For Elders
- • Soft tortillas (easier to chew)
- • Mild, well-cooked proteins
- • Low-sodium options labeled
- • Chairs at food station
- • Offer to fix plates for them
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we coordinate when families are traveling from far away?
Create a shared spreadsheet or use a free app like SignUpGenius. Local families handle perishables; traveling families can contribute money or bring non-perishables/desserts. Order tortillas in advance to be delivered to the venue.
What if the reunion spans multiple days?
Do taco bar for one main meal and simpler fare (sandwiches, potluck breakfast) for others. Leftover proteins can be repurposed into quesadillas, nachos, or breakfast tacos the next morning!
Bring Your Family Together
Authentic tortillas for your family gathering.