Plan the Party
Do what works for you, but respect your neighbor’s property and privacy. If you use the street for your party, do not block residents who do not want to participate. Be sure that emergency vehicles are able to enter the block party area at all times.
Your imagination is the limit when planning activities that will make your block party memorable. Make activities appropriate for the age group, safe, and fun. Some suggested activities are listed below:
- Have a theme: luau, sports, movie, picnic, ice cream social
- Food: potluck, cater, cookout, food trucks, snow cones
- Games: water games, watermelon eating, corn hole
- For kids: inflatable bounce houses, face painting, bike parade
- Entertainment: live music, outdoor movie, karaoke, photo props
- Request visits from City Departments such as Fire, Police and Public Works on the Block Party Registration form
Inform Your Neighbors
Get the message out to all your neighbors, whether by social media, newsletter or flier. If you wish to cover a large area with a flier, try dividing your neighborhood into equal sections and working with neighbors to make sure everyone is informed. Use a yard sign or banner at neighborhood entrance as a reminder to neighbors a few days prior to the Block Party.
Helpful Hints
Choose a location that will accommodate a large number of people. You may have chairs, grills, coolers, tables, and more, so make sure to find a space that is large enough.
Cost considerations: possibly the HOA could sponsor a portion of the party or with a Volunteer Neighborhood Network, have guests bring specific items collectively or ask for donations ahead of the party. For either group, maybe a resident within the neighborhood has a business willing to sponsor part of the party.
Be sure to include on the invitation necessary items to bring, such as food, beverages, ice, and paper goods. Suggest extras, such as lawn chairs, coolers, bug spray, or sunscreen. Include names and phone numbers of organizers.
Have a sign-in sheet to capture guests’ names and provide name tags, especially in newer neighborhoods. After all, the point is to get acquainted.
