Bates — Bringing Up

: Perhaps their most famous tradition, this annual Valentine’s Day celebration features themed costume contests and a large family gathering, often serving as a setting for major announcements. Life After UPtv

: All 19 children were homeschooled, with the family frequently discussing their devotion to God and their decision to allow Him to determine their family size by avoiding birth control. Bringing Up Bates

The show was often characterized by what the family called "organized chaos"—managing the logistics of a 21-person household. Whether it was massive spring cleaning projects, family trips to Florida, or the rush to finish wedding plans, the series aimed to portray a large family facing life's challenges with "love, humor, and Christian values". : Perhaps their most famous tradition, this annual

: The family has expanded rapidly beyond the original 19. As of late-stage filming, the family included numerous spouses and over a dozen grandchildren. Whether it was massive spring cleaning projects, family

Life Beyond the Lens: A Feature on the Bates Family Since its premiere in 2015, Bringing Up Bates captivated audiences by offering a window into the lives of Gil and Kelly Jo Bates and their 19 children. Set against the backdrop of Rocky Top, Tennessee, the series chronicled the family’s commitment to faith, modesty, and their unique "Independent Baptist" values. Though the show was canceled by UPtv in January 2022 to make room for new scripted programming, the "mega-family" remains a fixture in the public eye through their digital presence and personal milestones. The Pillars of Bates Life

: Family members like Lawson continue to host live chats and share updates on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, keeping the community spirit of the show alive. A Legacy of "Organized Chaos"

The Bates family’s lifestyle is rooted in a specific set of traditional principles that defined much of the show’s ten-season run: