More than 500 people from the Carter family will descend on the Crown Plaza Ravinia Dunwoody from July 24-27 to celebrate its 60th annual reunion, “marking six decades of love, legacy, and connection.”
Atlanta has been the host site for the reunion in 1991 and 2008, according to Stone Mountain resident Terrance Myles, the chair of the reunion committee. Other recent venues have included Memphis, Indianapolis and other cities across the United States.
During 2020, 2021, and 2022, the reunions were held virtually because of the COVID-19 pandemic, so this year marks the 60th in-person event, Myles said.
“We feel the need to keep on connecting because we have such a large family,” he said. “The legacy of reunions have always been embedded into the Carter family, and each reunion is a platform for the future.”
The Dunwoody reunion has been two years in the making, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the help of destination marketing organization Discover Dunwoody, he said.
“Discover Dunwoody was referred to me by the hotel, and they have been really great about supplying us with different options while we are having the reunion,” Myles said. “We need a good partner who can handle large crowds like ours, and they did a great job.”
Myles said the proximity to public transportation, Perimeter Mall, Campus 244, and High Street were draws in choosing the Dunwoody area, with plenty of shopping and entertainment venues from which to choose.
“I love the city of Dunwoody,” Myles said.
The reunion also generates significant economic impact for the Dunwoody area, a release from Discover Dunwoody said.
“The influx of visitors will boost local businesses, with nearby Perimeter Mall experiencing increased foot traffic and local restaurants serving additional patrons throughout the weekend.”
Mike Jackson, the chief sales officer for Discover Dunwoody, said the Carter family reunion epitomizes everything that the organization stands for, especially the ability to handle large events.
“As the official destination marketing organization for the City of Dunwoody, we are proud and honored to welcome this large-scale family reunion to our community,” Jackson said. “Hosting an event of this magnitude reflects the trust and confidence families have in Dunwoody as a premier destination for connection, celebration, and hospitality.”
This year’s reunion kicks off Thursday. July 24 with registration at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia, where attendees will collect event tickets and welcome packets.
Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch will join the opening session on July 25 at 6 p.m. to personally welcome the Carter family to Dunwoody, followed by a formal banquet, a family field day on Saturday afternoon, and a Sunday worship service to conclude the reunion.
“Our reunion is more than just a get-together,” Myles said. “It’s a chance for generations to bond, share stories, laugh, sing, and create memories that carry us through the year. Reaching 60 years with 500 people coming together shows the incredible strength of our family ties.”
