Why Should You Participate in a Blog Carnival?

You've seen them. People writing a blog post dealing with a specific subject and asking for input in the form of a post or comment. These can either stay on one blog or move from blog to blog.

In the case of one blog hosting the carnival or party, the comments and posts are aggregated and put in a follow-up post. Some don't have a follow-up but request links in the comments section so that others can view posts.
With the moving carnival, a reader goes from blog to blog reading the posts on the given subject.

Some examples are Randy Seaver's Saturday Night Fun on GenaMusings, Elizabeth O'Neils's monthly Blog Party on her Little Bytes of Life Blog, the yearly Blog Caroling event from FootnoteMaven, and my monthly GeneaChat posts for the In-Depth Genealogist Blog.  Please post the links to others that you know of in the comments section below!

So, why should you participate?
 First, it's fun! Joining with other genealogists to blog or comment about a topic can be a fun way to associate with others.

 Second, it gives you a topic to write about. I don't know about you, but sometimes, it's hard to get that idea formed so that you can get a new post out. The topics provided by these events will help.

Third, it's a win/win situation! If you are the host of the party, it brings people to your blog as they read about your topic.
As a participant, it brings attention to your post and using the link you provide brings traffic to your blog.
When the Blog Carnival provides a follow up with all the comments and links contributed for the theme, your post will be highlighted and linked back.  Again, bringing readers to your blog.

So what are you waiting for? Join the fun and network with other bloggers by hosting or participating in a Blog Carnival. Party on Genealogy Bloggers!

Cheri