Block Parties
A block party is a great way to get to know your neighbors. Many neighborhoods in Arlington and nearby hold block parties.
1. Make a Plan.
- Talk to a few neighbors. You don’t need to do this by yourself!
- Pick a date and a rain date. Plan at least 4 weeks ahead to have time to get a permit.
- Discuss logistics: Food, drinks, barricades, music, entertainment.
2. Get approval.
In Arlington, the Select Board issue permits for block parties. Specifically, the permit allows for the street to be closed, and can include approval for live music or other entertainment.
Visit the Town of Arlington’s License & Permits page and look for the “Block Party Application”. You’ll need a few days to get signatures from the abutters (direct neighbors of the portion of street you want to close). Make sure to submit the application at least three weeks before the block party date.
3. Advertise
- Make a flyer and post it up around the neighborhood. Make sure to include the block party date and rain date, location, and details about activities, food, music, etc.
- Make a neighborhood e-mail list.
4. Run the party!
Close down the street with lightweight barricades. Traffic cones, trash cans, and sawhorses work well. You can’t use parked cars or other heavy objects: emergency services need to be able to get through quickly if needed.
Here are some other resources for running your party:
- Sign-Up Sheet: PDF | DOCX
- Block Party Bingo version 1: PDF | DOCX
- Block Party Bingo version 2: PDF | DOCX
For more resources and block party inspiration, check out Block Party USA.