Okay, let’s be honest, sometimes “family history night” at church can feel a little…dry. But it doesn’t have to be that way! With a little creativity, you can plan an activity that’s actually fun and helps everyone connect with their ancestors. These activities would be perfect for Young Mens, Young Women’s, ward activities, family reunions, or a family home evening.

3 Engaging Family History Activities Your Ward Will Actually Enjoy

Here are three creative ideas to get those family history wheels turning:

1. “Ancestor Speed Dating”

This one is a guaranteed hit, especially with the youth! Here’s how it works:

Before the activity: Have ward members choose one of their ancestors to represent and find a photo of them to bring to the activity. Before they arrive, they should learn as much as they can about them, so they have lots to share with other ward members.
At the activity: Set up chairs in rows facing each other, like speed dating. Each person sits across from another ward member, both representing their own ancestor, and have 3 minutes to get to know each other. Then, everyone switches seats and repeats the process, getting to know another ancestor. Everyone should talk in first person, as if they ARE the ancestor. For example, “Hi, I’m Helen. I arrived to America from Sweden in 1844…” The more someone can learn about their ancestor beforehand, the better!
Spice it up: Play some background music (maybe old classical or folk music) and provide snacks to create a fun, social atmosphere.

Why it works: This activity is fast-paced, interactive, and allows people to share and learn about a variety of ancestors. Plus, it’s a great way to break the ice and encourage conversation.

Bonus! Use this Ancestor Speed Dating printable to pass out to ward members BEFORE the big night, so they can be a little more prepare to answer and ask questions during the speed dating activity.

2. “Family History Mystery Night”

Turn your ward into a team of detectives!

The Setup: Present a real genealogical mystery from your ward’s family history. Maybe it’s a missing ancestor, a confusing family legend, or a question about someone’s origins. Depending on how many people will participate, splitting into multiple groups may be best (each group with their own mystery to solve.) Make sure everyone participating has a Family Search account. You can decorate with magnifying glasses, detective hats, and crime scene tape. Use old newspapers, maps, and antique-looking props.
The Investigation: Divide the ward into groups and provide them with resources to solve the mystery. This could include access to FamilySearch, old family photos, historical records, or even clues hidden around the room.
Mystery Types:
- The Missing Ancestor: “John Smith disappears from records after 1880. Where did he go?”
- The Unknown Origin: “Sarah Jones’s birthplace is listed as ‘Ireland.’ Can we find the specific town?”
- The Family Legend: “Legend says our family descended from royalty. Is there any truth to it?”
- The Identity Puzzle: “We have a photo labeled ‘Great Aunt Mary,’ but no one knows which Mary it is.”
Create Engaging Clues:
- Ask an Expert: Experienced family historians in the ward might hold valuable clues.
- Physical Clues: Hide clues around the room (pedigree charts, maps, old letters).
- Online Clues: Create a shared document with links to online resources, digital images, or even audio recordings.
- “Red Herrings”: Include a few misleading clues to make it more challenging!
The Solution: Have each group present their findings and theories. If the mystery is solvable, reveal the answer!

Why it works: Everyone loves a good mystery! This activity taps into our natural curiosity and makes family history feel like an exciting adventure.

3. “My Heritage Cookbook”

Combine family history with everyone’s favorite activity: eating!

The Recipe: Ask ward members to bring a favorite recipe passed down in their family. Have them share the story behind the recipe and any memories associated with it.
- Collection: Compile all the recipes into a ward cookbook (digital or printed). Create a shared online document (Google Docs, shared family tree, etc.) where people can easily submit their recipes and stories.
- Story Prompts: Encourage rich storytelling by providing prompts:
  - Origin of the recipe (who created it, where did it come from?)
  - Special occasions or memories associated with the dish
  - Any adaptations or variations over the years
  - Photos of the recipe contributor and the dish itself
The Feast: You could even have a potluck where everyone brings their dish to share. Decorate with food-themed items, vintage kitchenware, or cultural elements related to the recipes.
Bonus points: Include photos of the ancestors who contributed the recipes and any interesting historical tidbits about the food. Encourage everyone to link the recipes to their ancestor on FamilySearch.

Why it works: Food is a universal language that connects us to our past. This activity is a delicious way to celebrate family traditions and learn about different cultures. Keep it casual, make it fun, and focus on the stories. Happy researching!