Reunion Planning
Planning Calendar for Your Door County Reunion
Planning your first reunion or your first visit to Door County with your group? Wondering what to do and when? This monthly to-do calendar will help you get off and running in the right direction. After you've considered all these to-do items, send us an email at info@doorcounty.com and we'll provide you with as much information as possible to fit your group's needs.
9-12 months before:
- Select the date(s) and duration for your reunion
Make sure you choose a back-up date(s) as well. If you've chosen dates over a major holiday or festival, you may not be able to book your desired accommodation at your preferred rates.
TIP: While most people think of summer as the time to hold reunions, don't limit yourself to just that. Long weekends during other parts of the year can also be a good time for a get-together. You can plan around someone's birthday, an anniversary, or another important milestone taking place in your group. The fall foliage season in Door County is very popular with dazzling colors, pungent smells, and quiet sounds of nature. Check out our Seasonal Activities for more ideas. Also remember, some accommodations offer discounted rates and vacation packages from November through April.
- Determine how many people will be coming and how many rooms you will need
This information is important in order to match you up with lodging that will accommodate the entire group. Some hotels will reserve a block of rooms for your group for a limited time period. Click here to download a list of cottages that can accommodate groups of 8 or more.
- Choose an accommodation type
From a group of cabins on a sandy beach to modern condominium resorts with indoor pools, Door County has something for every family reunion in every season. Search our lodging properties by type to see what's available.
- Organize any special needs for your group
We have lists of accommodations that are wheelchair accessible and/or accept pets (since your furry friends are sometimes a very special part of the family too).
- Select a "home base" community
Door County has about a dozen communities, each with their own unique atmosphere. Learn more about each village, town or city on our Communities pages. Remember: you're always close to all activities in the county as it's only a matter of minutes driving from one village to the next.
- Send an e-Postcard Invitation
A fun way to show them what their going to be experiencing is by sending a Door County postcard via email to your whole group and inviting them to check out the website for more info and ideas.
6-9 months before:
- Plan to capture the moment with a group photo
Hire a professional photographer to get lots of pictures for the archives! Those 4-5 generation photos can be really special. See Wedding & Group Services page for photographer info.
- Organize any extra special touches like catering, floral decorating, or entertainment
There are many talented Door County event professionals waiting to help you make your reunion extra special. See Catering page and Wedding & Group Services page for more info.
4-5 months before:
- Plan dining out options for your group
There are many unique and award-winning restaurants, some with private or semi-private space. Several hotels also offer banquet facilities (see Reception Facilities). Let us know what type of atmosphere you're looking for and what your budget needs are and we'll try to match you up with a great experience. If you'd rather grill out or picnic, consider this list of beautiful county and state parks. While you're here, don't forget to take in a traditional fish boil (reservations highly recommended).
- Plan your group activities
Whether your idea of a perfect vacation is theater under the stars, canoeing around a remote island or settling into a comfy chair at water's edge with a stack of good books the Door County Peninsula and Washington Island is the perfect destination. Adventures as extreme as you want them to be and relaxation as serene as you can imagine await you in Door County. Check out our Trip Ideas for starters.
2-3 months before:
- Confirm reservations with accommodations, tours, entertainment, dining, etc.
If you've lost the phone numbers or email addresses for any of these businesses, don't panic! Try searching our website or contact us directly and we'll help you out.
- Order matching Door County T-Shirts, buttons, hats and more
It's easier to locate your group in a large crowd or busy shop if you're all sporting the same Door County motif! Plus, it's great memorabilia for your spectacular reunion. See Shopping section for more info.
- Provide online information about all Door County has to offer your group
You can build a customized Trip Plan on our website for your guests by clicking the Trip Planner button on each business or event web page. Then you can print and mail it or email it to everyone. Our website also provides everything they need to know about Door County, including the weather, things to do, arts & culture, outdoor activities, an up-to-date calendar of events, community maps, and more.
1-2 months before:
- Plan group transportation
If you're flying into Green Bay's Austin Straubel International Airport, be sure either to rent a car or arrange for transportation from Green Bay to your accommodations as it is an hour drive from there to Sturgeon Bay. See Getting Here for more info.
- Provide written information on Door County to those who want it
You can order a copy of the "Door County Official Visitor Guide" for your own use AND we'll also supply you with several copies for your guests. Order a guidebook for each family by calling our helpful information services staff at 800-527-3529.
2 weeks before:
- Check your RSVP list and call anyone who hasn't responded yet
- Reconfirm your reservations and details with all vendors. Discuss any last-minute changes.
1 week before:
- All your hard work in planning is finally going to pay off within days. Pack your bags and get ready to enjoy yourself and your perfectly planned reunion in Door County!
Whether or not you've ever been to Door County, the Door County Visitor Center can make your trip easy and enjoyable. Browse our web site, call for personal assistance at (920) 743-4456, or stop by our Visitor Center on Highway 42/57 as you enter Sturgeon Bay. Our lobby is open 24/7 for your convenience.