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Block Party Basics

By:   Vanessa Greaves

If you only see the neighbors when you're hauling out the trash, it's time to rock the block and turn a collection of addresses into a close-knit community.

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood


A block party is worth the effort even if your "block" is an apartment complex or high-rise condo. The people you only nod to now can become your go-to community.






Side Dishes

Everyone likes a little something on the side.




Building Blocks

If you know one or two other folks on your block, get together and brainstorm how to involve more people in the planning and doing:

  • Decide what makes up your "block." Is it just your street, apartment building, or condo association? How large a crowd can you handle?
  • Sketch out the party date, location, and time: late afternoon to early evening usually works well.
  • Make up a flyer inviting everyone to a general planning meeting. Deliver this flyer to each household in the designated block--don't leave anyone out.
  • Give yourselves at least eight weeks to put together the event--permits and reservations might require lots of lead time.


    The Next Big Thing


    About a week after the party, get feedback and suggestions. Find out what worked, what fell flat, and how it can be done better the next time around--because a great block party can turn into a fun-filled, community-building annual event.

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