August 26, 2018

Put your hospitality on the block!

Fall is coming so I thought it would be a great time to share some block party ideas. Fall is a fantastic time to hold one. I think block parties are one of the ways we can show our Christian hospitality.

Our church has had block parties in the past and they can be a good time to build community and connect with people. You can also have a personal block party and just invite everyone in the neighborhood over to your home and have a big party on your lawn.

We live in a world where everyone stays to themselves. The trend is to live inward and only be on our technological devices for communication. We are real people, and we could use a dose of the real world from time to time. At least that’s what I think. Having a block party is a great way to reach out and offer a little Christian hospitality to those who need some real people time.

Block Party Tips

Block parties don’t just happen though. They require several hands working together to pull them off.

Have a Plan

Have a plan. You can’t just all of a sudden decide to have a block party. It takes planning and there are too many details that have to be taken care of legally with your city and county that you can’t overlook like permits, ordinances, etc.

Make your plan have a purpose

Make your plan have a purpose. Is it a personal block party to just build community and meet friends? Is it a church block party to meet new families and invite them into your church and show you care?

Meet any city and county requirements

Check with your city, county, police, and all departments necessary to research if a block party is even feasible. Do everything within the legalities of your city and county.

• Check to see if you need permissions and permits.
• Check any ordinances that may bar you from having a block party. Be sure to check noise ordinances in your city and county as well.
• Check to make sure there are no requirements or stipulations if you serve food.
• Make sure any insurance requirements are fulfilled.

Gather Volunteers

If you are having activities, have plenty of workers and helpers.

Make sure that safety is first

Make sure all safety measures are in place for any activities.

Have medical tech available

Have a doctor, nurse, or some type of medical staff on hand in case of any emergencies.

Be prepared with first aid

Have a few first aid kits located in strategic places throughout the block party area.

Make Food Safety a Priority

If you are having food, follow clean food handling procedures. Make sure hot and cold food are kept at appropriate temperatures.

Choose a good location

Pick a great location. Preferably something that has at least some street room for parking and plenty of area for people to walk and mingle.

Promote your Block Party

Advertise and get the word out.

Copyright ©2018 Julia Bettencourt

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