PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — A nationwide effort to unite people named Ryan is coming to Philadelphia this month, transforming a shared first name into a community movement. Organizers say the upcoming “Ryan Reunion” is about more than novelty-it’s about connection.
Ryan Fisher, who helps lead the Ryan Meetup group, said the gatherings create an instant bond. “You walk into a Ryan meetup, and it’s like, hey, Ryan’s here! And everyone… It’s the ultimate icebreaker, and it just brings this bonding together,” he said. “And then the feedback we get from every Ryan who attends a Ryan meetup is, when’s the next one?” The event, known as St. Ryan’s Day, is billed as the fastest-growing organization dedicated to bringing together people who share the name. The idea began three years ago with a flier posted in Brooklyn. Since then, an online community of thousands of Ryans has formed, hosting meetups and events nationwide. Organizers say the appeal goes beyond the joke. “Something we hear about a lot, especially post-COVID, is people trying to find their community, and find their people, and find a sense of belonging, and find something that’s unique,” Fisher said. This year’s meetup is scheduled for March 21 on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The group plans to attempt a world record for the most people with the same name simultaneously climbing the Rocky Steps. The organizers say the goal is simple: bring people together – one Ryan at a time.
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