Block party

A block party on Jane Street west of Eighth Avenue in Manhattan in October 2008.

A block party or street party is a party in which many members of a single community congregate, either to observe an event of some importance or simply for mutual solidarity and enjoyment. The name comes from the form of the party, which often involves closing an entire city block to vehicle traffic or just a single street. Many times, there will be a celebration in the form of playing music, games, dance and activities with food such as popcorn machines and barbecues. When multiple streets become cordoned off, those are referred to as street fairs. These gatherings are especially popular during holidays or local celebrations and may range from informal get-togethers to large public events. The tradition has evolved globally, with local variations reflecting cultural, historical, and political contexts.

Block parties in many countries, particularly in urban areas, require permits and adherence to legal regulations such as street closures, noise control, public safety, and health guidelines.

As a form of activism street parties are festive and/or artistic efforts to reclaim roadways as public space by large groups of people. They were made known in Western Europe and North America by the actions of Reclaim the Streets,[1] a widespread "dis-organization" dedicated to reclaiming public space from automobiles and consumerism.

  1. ^ "Third Text". thirdtext.org. Retrieved 6 March 2025.

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