What this picture Is
This is the nineteen hundred block of Melrose Street in Chicago where I lived for 17 years. It's a hot summer day and the day of annual block party. We've closed off both ends of the block with a parked car and a sign taped to it that says "Block Party." The street has been turned into a playground. My son Chris is in the bottom right of the photo next to the blue pool. He has his back to camera. His hair has red dye in it for the party. He's wearing a swimsuit that matches his brother Daniel's suit. I don't see Daniel in this shot. I am guessing he's in the bouncy house.
The Chicago fire department has come and turned on the hydrant for the kids to play in. Just beyond the picture is a fire truck where the firefighters stand ready to let children climb on later in the day. Earlier in the day, we had a block party parade. For years we opened our block parties with a parade of neighbors dressed according to the block party theme. The Dolan family always marched last-they were our grand finale. They put extraordinary thought and effort into decorating their wagon and themselves and created the best spectacle!
Also in the photo are families from the block whose kids grew up with ours. There were the Dolans, the Westmans, the Kinders, the Chus and the Kleins.
Later, after the fire fighters have turned off the water and left, we will set up a long line of tables on the street. Neighbors will then place dishes of food to share on the tables. We will line up with our plates in hand, load our plates up and enjoy visiting with each other as we dine on the shared feast.
Why I saved this picture
Many on the block, like my husband and I, were new to Chicago and being parents. We were seeking some convenient camaraderie.
When I saw others hosting these road-blocking bashes I inquired and learned all you need to have one of your own was a permit from the city and a plan. My neighbor Jenny offered to get the permit and I got to work on the plan. It started with a flyer in every neighbor's mailbox inviting them to a planning meeting at Jenny's house. Six of us met and decided on the date, the party format and of course the theme . Then we put another round of flyers in everyone's mail boxes letting them know the details.
Spending time together at our block party brought the neighbors closer. We learned more people's names and their stories. We had conversations to continue each time we stopped to chat.
Embrace local traditions
When you have an opportunity to embrace a local tradition that encourages community, go for it! Find one other person who is game for giving it a go, then from there reach out and involve others.
Don't worry about doing it right. Mishaps are part of the charm of new adventures. Stay open to evolving your event as learn and hear new ideas from new people!
Key Points
Community forms when someone takes initiative — inviting others, creating space to gather, and making connection easy and welcoming.
Shared experiences, even imperfect ones, help people learn names, stories, and trust — turning neighbors into a supportive community over time.