FLAT TOP, WV (WOAY) – Generations of one of the oldest Southern West Virginia families have converged on Ellison Ridge Road, welcoming the community to join them — whether your lineage is Lilly or not.
The iconic Lilly Reunion, their 96th, is packed with musical acts, games, contests, and more.
“Since 1929, we’ve been having a reunion. This land here was donated to us. It used to be out at the monument on the main road back in the day,” said Lilly Family Reunion Vice President Eddie Lilly. “More than 10,000 people would come, and we’re trying to get it built back up.”
The three-day celebration is all about family and fellowship.
“We have activities for kids here, and ain’t just for the lilies. This is for the whole community. Anybody and everybody can come,” Eddie said. “This year we’re having a car and jeep show. We’re trying to get more people involved.”
When it comes to Lilly family members, they number in the millions across the world.
“There are people who come from England to here. I’ve got relatives everywhere. I tell everybody I’m kin to all of you because my mommy was a Lilly, my daddy was a Lilly,” said Eddie.
He has been coming to his family’s reunions since the age of three.
“My mom and dad would bring me here all the time. And my boys have been coming ever since I started coming with them,” the Lilly Family Reunion vice president said.
According to Eddie, now his four grandkids are getting in on it, too.
“They’re carrying on the Lilly name, and I’m so excited for them,” he said. “That’s why I do this — for the younger kids to be able to keep returning and learning the history of the Lillys.”
IF YOU WANT TO GO
July 18-20, 2025
314 Ellison Ridge Rd., Flat Top
