100 Party Themes
First Birthday
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Holiday Parties
Invitations
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Planning Guide
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Successful Block Parties are cooperative efforts. Not only is it too much work for one family, but the simple act of many families contributing to the event helps build the feeling of community.
Block parties are appropriate for all ages and part of the fun is providing the opportunity for children of different ages interact. The key is to have a wide range of activities...some activities that are fun for young children, some that are fun for older children, and some that bridge the gap and can be enjoyed by all children and even adults.
Front yards, driveways, sidewalks and garages are logical locations. Some cities allow residents to obtain permits to block auto traffic on the street and actually use the street for the party location (kids love being able to play in the street for a day!). These permits are usually low cost ($25), but must be applied for well in advance.
If your neighborhood is close to a park or school with public space, the party could be held there. Since this is likely to be an outdoor party, think about the back-up plan in case of rain (is the party postponed or moved inside garages or covered porches?)
Fun Invitation ideas for a block party include:
- shape and name of your street sign
- reproduction of a map of your neighborhood
Ask for RSVPs at least one week ahead and request the following information:
- number of guests
- ages and gender of children
- type of food they plan to bring
- games or craft supplies they can bring
- entertainment skills (see below)
- misc. supplies they can bring (tables, chairs, bbq grill, ice chest)
This allows you to determine how many people to plan for and determine the supply needs that are taken care of and those that are still needed.
More Invitation ideas and tips!
Fun Decorations for a Block Party include:
- colorful table cloths and partyware (plates, cups, napkins, utensils).
- banner or poster to celebrate the occasion "Welcome to the Elm Street Block Party".
- Helium or regular balloons tied to trees, fences, mailboxes
More Decorating ideas!
Fun Games & Activities for a Block Party include:
- street hockey
- obstacle course
- parade
- guess how many jar (m&ms or peppermints)
- ping pong
- stomp rockets
- twister
- checkers
- water balloon toss
- skateboarding
- parade
- jump ropes
- frisbees
- marbles
- jacks
- bubbles
- relay race
- limbo
- yo-yos
- face painting
- neighborhood musicians or boom box
More Games & Activities!
Fun Arts & Crafts ideas for a Block Party include:
- sidewalk chalk
- coloring and painting
- spin art
- modeling clay or play doh
- decorate bikes and wagons for parade
More Arts & Crafts ideas!
Fun Foods for a Block Party include:
- fried chicken
- hot dogs
- submarine sandwiches
- lemonade and ice tea
- street sign cake or cupcakes with monopoly houses
- popsicles, icecream cones or make your own sundaes
More Fun Food ideas!
Fun Favors for a Block Party include:
- small rubber balls
- paddle balls
- punching balloons
- bottles of bubbles
- ball & jack sets
- sidewalk chalk
- mini frisbees
More Favor ideas!
Special Resources for a Block Party include:
- Celebrate Express
- Kids' Party Fun Directory (entertainment, rentals, and places)
More on-line Resources!
Related Party Themes include:
More Party Themes!