How to Organize a Block Party
Block parties can vary from a simple gathering of a few folks in a front yard to a highly organized event that spills over into the street. Either way, they can provide an opportunity to get to know your neighbors, have fun, and create a close neighborhood where everyone looks out for each other. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Create a planning committee (as well as subcommittees in charge of food, activities, clean-up, publicity and decorations), and set up a meeting to discuss all details. Allow anywhere from eight weeks to three months to plan the event.
-
2
Call the local police department to get permission to block off the street during the party. Inquire if alcohol may not be permitted on city streets. Find out regulations regarding loud amplification of music.
-
-
3
Plan activities that will get a wide range of neighbors involved. Kick off the day with a parade comprised of wagon floats for the little children and a dressed up bike parade for the older ones. Choose games that involve teams and/or groups of people. Organize on-going activities to keep younger children busy. Institute a bathroom policy "everyone to use their own" so that home security is maintained.
-
4
Create flyers announcing the date and details of the party, and hand deliver them to your neighbors. In addition to the date, time and place, mention items to bring -- such lawn chairs, coolers, bug spray, sunscreen and athletic equipment. Give a brief preview of the party agenda, and list the phone numbers of the organizers.
-
5
Keep the food simple, and have a plan for bad weather. Set up a tent or tarp to keep edibles away from the weather. Depending on how elaborate you want the block party to be and how long it will last, you could just serve simple finger foods and appetizers or ask neighbors to contribute side dishes for a BBQ.
-
6
Provide large containers filled with cold drinks on ice. For a large crowd, have a small keg of beer or nonalcoholic beer on tap.
-
7
Make the area festive with helium balloons, streamers, and colorful plates and napkins.
-
8
Inspire clean up after the party by rewarding children with a prize.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
An outdoor setting is great for any gathering of neighbors for a block party. Food tastes better eaten in the fresh air surrounded by the beauty of nature. Always have a 'Plan B' for weather conditions.
References
- Photo Credit Digital Vision./Digital Vision/Getty Images
