How to Host a
Block Party
If you’re interested in hosting a block party, but don’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place! Below are steps you can take to organize and execute a fun and engaging block party.
Step #1
Identify a few neighbors interested in co-hosting (not necessary, but it makes it more fun).
Choose a residential street that you would like to host the block party on; this is usually easier if you choose a street you or someone else lives on. Major streets and one-ways are almost impossible to get permission to block off.
Select a day and time for the block party. Decide if you need cars moved off the street for the party or not. Rarely do neighbors ever complain about a block party, especially if they don’t need to move their cars!
Step #2
Once you have identified the street, the day, and the time, notify Sarah at LNA at projects@lyndale.org and copy info@lyndale.org (in case Sarah is out of town).
Choose a neighbor on the selected block to file the paperwork with the City for the block permit.
LNA can help you get approval for your street closure using a Google form and/or flyer that can be distributed to neighbors.
75% of the properties on the street need to say YES to having a block party. This can be done by a property owner or a renter in a building.
Once 75% of neighbors agree, LNA will file the permit with the City and pay the $50 fee. The neighbor that agreed to be the block host will get an email confirmation directly from the City.
A preview of the permit form can be viewed here.
Step #3
Once your street is approved, have your team create a list of what you want to do at your party and what you will need. Tables, chairs, food, music, name tags, sharpies, a grill, garbage and recycling cans, and an email or other sign-up sheet are common items at a Block Party.
Your group, or LNA, can create a flyer to invite everyone to the party. It can remind people to bring food or drinks to share, including a potluck sign-up form.
Barricades will be dropped off at the end of your street the day of the party. Someone should be responsible for setting them up. Each barricade should be positioned one house-length in from each street corner one hour before the party.
Make sure your team talks about roles for each person:
Someone to create signage for the event
Someone to give a welcome speech and introduce the planning team
Someone to greet neighbors and handle nametags
Someone to monitor food and answer any allergen questions
Someone to move barricades for folks that need to drive in/out