|
Block parties are huge gatherings put together by neighborhoods to raise funds for a cause, celebrate a holiday or just for the heck of it! Neighborhood parties are great opportunities for raising money for charity, a new park or anything you can think of. If you are thinking about a block party, it will take a lot of organization but will be worth it when you see how much fun everyone has. To begin the organization of your party you will need to form an organization committee and the best way to do that is to hold a neighborhood meeting.
You can find a local church, American Legion or other public gathering place to hold your meeting. Post signs and an ad in the paper advertising your meeting and plan to have some refreshments. Everyone can bring something and volunteer to help set up and clean up afterwards. At the meeting, discuss the reason for the party, vote in an organization committee and decide on the date, hours and basic structure for the party right from the start to be sure everyone is on the same page.
Your organization committee will need to coordinate the events of your block party. One fun way to organize the food is to have each family bring a different specialty food. A list can be circulated so that everyone knows what will be brought and not too many duplicates are served. Have appointed hours for different foods and be careful to schedule them apart from other events like games, swimming or dancing. Be sure everyone in your neighborhood knows about the block party and has the opportunity to participate.
Have plenty of activities planned for children and adults together. Kids like to be involved with games like volleyball, badminton, etc. that are played with adults, this helps them feel like they belong and are not being separated from the party. Horseshoes, softball and wide-scale hide and seek are also great block party games. Make sure you have your streets blocked off where games will take place and notify your local police of any such blocking to be sure it doesn’t pose a problem.
Make sure you have a back-up plan in the event of rain and decide what the rules about alcohol will be and make sure everyone stays responsible. A specified area for beer and alcohol is a good idea to keep things under control. Have a clean-up crew assigned ahead of time or ask everyone to help.
With a little organization and a lot of cooperation, a block party can be a great way to get to know your neighbors and have a great time. The kids will never forget this giant party and you can start a tradition of having one every year!
| 
