A block party is a great way to get to know your neighbors and create lasting friendships!  

If you're new to the neighborhood, you may even learn from neighbors about the history of the area where you live. When neighbors get to know each other, they tend to look out for each other -- and that makes for a happy, safe neighborhood.  

10 REASONS TO HAVE A BLOCK PARTY

• To have fun – no excuses or reasons are needed to celebrate.

• To provide an opportunity to know your neighbors and where they live.

• To establish friendships.

• To increase that sense of belonging to a community.

• To learn a little about each other and know who might need a little extra help from time to time.

• To meet neighbors on your block that might be able to help you shovel your sidewalk in the winter or help with a gardening problem, or lend you that needed ingredient for your recipe.

• To encourage neighbors to look after the neighborhood.

• To help with safety/crime prevention by knowing who lives where and who does not.

• To increase security by knowing each other’s schedules.

• To develop an opportunity to meet some of the long established residents of the neighborhood and learn about your community history.

What is a Block Party?

A Block Party allows you to temporarily close a section of street using City-provided barricades.  The rest is up to you and your neighbors!  Use the street for grilling, games, chalk art and so much more!

Basics:

• Online Application (Applications must be received at least 14 days prior to the block party.)
• City Ordinance
  • definition
  • purpose
  • noise
  • hours
  • complaints/termination
• Please keep in mind:
  • Under Wisconsin Law, alcohol possession is prohibited on public streets and sidewalks.
  • If marking the street, please use chalk marking paint that washes off easily.

Check List for Block Party:

• Pick a date - remember, your application should be received at least 14 days before your event

• Determine the area - use natural neighborhood boundaries (i.e. end of the block or a cul-de-sac) 

• Check with neighbors 

• Apply for permit; be sure it is approved (Online Application) 

• Notice/Invites to neighbors 

• Who helps with set up/clean up? 
  
  
• What types of games/activities?
  •  Fire Department visit for kids can be requested on the online application (if resources available)

• Who will supply the grills, tables, chairs, etc...? 

• Do you wish to assign food, or have everyone bring a dish to pass? 

• Will everyone bring their own plates, napkins, utensils? 

• Will everyone bring their own beverages? 

• Where will you dispose of garbage?

• Plans in case of bad weather conditions?

Safety Tips

• Keep back doors locked.
• Be sure emergency vehicles are able to access area in an emergency.
• Remind neighbors to move their vehicles from the street before the party.
• Do not dump waste materials into storm drains.

For further information, please call (715) 839-4902.