Plan a block party

A neighbourhood party (block party) is an opportunity for neighbours to get together, meet one another, have fun and work on a common activity. It usually takes place on a street that has been closed, but it can also take place in a neighbouring park or at a community facility. Activities can include barbecues, picnics, games, dancing and music.

Looking to plan a neighbourhood block party? Approval must be provided by the City.

Ten reasons to have a block party

1. Have fun — no excuse or reason is needed to celebrate
2. Meet your neighbours and celebrate your community
3. Increase your sense of belonging to the community
4. Organize initiatives such as a block parent program
5. Make connections
6. Meet a neighbour who can help you with gardening tips
7. Organize a babysitting co-op or share walking to school duties
8. Take action/share ideas to plan a campaign for traffic slowdown, better lighting, a new neighbourhood park or other residents' concerns
9. Use the street for the day to rollerblade, play hockey or dance
10. Meet some of the long-term residents in the neighbourhood and learn about its history

Planning your block party

• The idea of a neighbourhood block party is to bring people together; invite some neighbours to help out with the planning
• Decide what type of party would be best: barbecue, picnic, potluck or catered
• Start with a smaller event and grow it over the years
• Use natural neighbourhood boundaries (such as end of the block or everyone in the cul-de-sac) when determining who to invite
• Figure out a location. If you choose to host it on the street, or in a park or alley, you will need a Special Events application form. Contact Dari Lang at 403-948-8804, ext. 8864 for more information.
• Distribute a notice requesting feedback on the date and time. Once the committee decides on a date, distribute another notice with all the details
• You may want to post signs the day before the event to remind everyone to remove cars for street closure
• At the event, name tags are great for helping everyone to get to know each other

For more information on planning a neighbourhood block party, contact Community Development.