A block party is a fun way to bring your neighborhood together, meet new people, and build community spirit. With some thoughtful planning, you can host a block party that everyone will enjoy. Follow these tips for choosing the right location, sending invitations, providing food and activities, and more.
Choose the Right Location
One of the first things to decide is where to host the block party. Look for a central location in the neighborhood that can accommodate the number of guests you plan to invite. Some good options include:
- A quiet street or cul-de-sac. Make sure to get any necessary permits for closing the street to vehicles for the duration of the party.
- A local park. Reserve any picnic shelters or open grassy areas.
- A community playground or courtyard. These centralized spots encourage families to attend.
- Someone’s driveway or backyard. Get permission and make sure there is enough room.
The location should have adequate parking and be easy for most neighbors to access. If you plan to have activities, games, or an inflatables, make sure there is sufficient open space.
Send Creative Invitations
Create fun invitations to get your neighbors excited about the block party. Online tools make it easy to design and print invitations. Hand deliver them to houses in your area 2-3 weeks before the party date. Include important details like:
- Date, time, rain date (if applicable)
- Location with parking instructions
- Request for RSVPs and contact info
- Potluck sign up (if applicable)
- List of activities, games, etc.
Providing details upfront helps guests know what to expect. Follow up with email or Facebook event reminders as the date approaches.
Offer Tasty Food and Refreshments
Great food and drinks are essential for any successful block party. There are several options for providing food:
- Potluck style where each household brings a dish to share
- Grill-out where a few neighbors supply grilled items like hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, etc.
- Catering from a local restaurant is an easy option if you have the budget
- Food trucks add variety and appeal for guests of all ages
Provide a mix of hearty main dishes, salads, sides, chips, desserts, and non-alcoholic drinks. Having enough for second helpings is better than not having enough food. Don’t forget serving utensils, plates, cups, napkins, and trash cans.
Plan Engaging Activities
The activities and entertainment will make your block party truly memorable for guests. Get to know neighbors through fun games and contests like:
- Lawn games like cornhole, ladder ball, giant Jenga
- Three-legged and sack races
- Water balloon toss
- Hula hoop contests
- Face painting and temporary tattoos
- Inflatable obstacle course rental (great for kids and adults!)
- Scavenger hunt around the block
- Sidewalk chalk art contest
- Music and karaoke
Have prizes for games and contest winners. Also, provide tables and chairs so guests can sit, eat, chat, and relax.
Follow Up and Make Connections
Your block party is a success when neighbors meet each other, reconnect, and strengthen community bonds. Follow up with guests after the party:
- Send thank you notes or emails to volunteers and those who brought food, supplies, etc.
- Share photos taken during the party for people to enjoy
- Personally invite new people you met to other neighborhood events
- Plan when to host the next block party!
With thoughtful planning and engagement, your block party will knock it out of the park. Bring people together, make memories, and build neighborhood spirit.