Start A Neighborhood Independence Day Celebration

While most neighborhoods in suburban America occasionally have block parties to celebrate birthdays, or a host of other special occasions, nothing is more thrilling than to have a “Fourth of July” block party. If you wish to start a neighborhood Independence Day celebration in your community, encompassing a block party and parade, here are some tips to get you started.

First you will need to file an application. Here is a sample of what an application for a Block Party/Parade may entail. Check with the local police department in your state for more information.

* The person(s) signing the application for any of the above events is responsible for ensuring that all conditions are fulfilled, and that all residents of the block are made aware of them.  

* Applications for approval by Board of Trustees must be received at least thirty (30) days prior to event. Obtain the signatures of all residents on the block involved, whether they are/or are not in favor of the block party (at least 75% of residents must be in favor in order to qualify for approval).

* Block Parties are primarily for the benefit of the residents of the block, and their families. It is the responsibility of the person(s) designated “responsible for the party” to ensure that minors are supervised at all times and that no uninvited guests are allowed to crash the block party.  

* Person(s) designated responsible for the block party must provide every household on the block with copy of letter of approval, whether they are/or are not participating in the function, prior to date of the block party.

* All Block Parties may begin no earlier than 10:00 a.m., and shall end no later than 11:00 p.m., at which time all music must end.

* Remind neighbors of “The Block Party” date, and the time it will start to provide ample time for them to park their vehicles in an accessible location. (Please note: it is imperative that no vehicles park alongside the police barricades, blocking the intersection, in case fire or emergency vehicles need to get through.)

* Police barricades, used to prevent through traffic, should not be moved or removed until the end of the event. At the end of the event, place the barricades on the grassy area between the curb and sidewalk for pickup by the Public Works Department.

* No tables or chairs should be placed in the vicinity of fire hydrants. The roadway must have at least a fifteen (15) foot wide lane free of obstruction, to allow emergency vehicles access to the entire block.

* No more than one Block Party a year is permitted.

* Fireworks, of any kind, are prohibited (display or otherwise). Bicycle riding is prohibited within the confines of the block party. Please refrain from very loud music and entertainment.

* Do not serve alcoholic beverages to any person under 21 years of age or who appears to be intoxicated. All alcoholic beverages must be supervised and served by responsible adults. We encourage the availability of non-alcoholic beer and soft drinks.

* Adhere to local regulations concerning recycling and garbage disposal.  

In addition, if you intend to have a parade, you need to contact the local fire department as well. Before you file all of the proper paperwork, you need to contact your neighbors and ask if they would like to participate. You will need their help in putting this entire celebration together. Once they have agreed and all of the permits are in place, it’s time to organize a committee to take care of the following items:

* Order any necessary equipment from party rental company: tents, folding tables, chairs, barbecues, coolers, helium tank, and megaphone (to be delivered the day before the party).
* Make and mail invitations.
* Make ribbons and awards for games.
* Gather supplies for games.
* Buy decorations: balloons, streamers, and flags.
* Shop for nonperishable food, and paper supplies (plates, cups, napkins, plastic utensils).
* Procure perishable food, including ice.
* Set up tents, tables, chairs, and barbecues.
* Fill water balloons.
* Put up other balloons and streamers.
* Decorate tables with tablecloths and tableware.
* Fire up the barbecues.

Starting a tradition of a Neighborhood Independence Day Celebration is a wonderful way to not only celebrate the day, but to get to know your neighbors as well.