One of the best things about being a kid in the summer is playing outside with your friends. Last weekend, the kids on our street were in heaven when we closed off the block for our annual street party. I was one of the organizers so I thought I'd share my street party planning tips in case you're organizing one of these fun events in your 'hood.



1. Know your audience. The dynamic of a street changes every year - children get older, people move away. If possible, try and get a survey ahead of time and find out ages of people on the street. Our street party was about 50% kids under the age of 12 and also had a growing group of teens. I felt it important to have organized activities for the young set and the teens so everyone felt involved. Look at your street makeup and plan the day's agenda accordingly, with something for everyone.

2. Know your city regulations. If you're closing off your street, you'll likely have to apply to the city and meet stringent requirements (street permit, liability insurance, site plan, waste management plan etc.). If you add on activities such as fireworks or inflatable rides/bouncy castle, those may have their own specific permit and insurance requirements. A movie night might also require a special license.

Circus Jonathan kept the entire street enthralled. He was AWESOME.

3. Communicate. If you want your neighbours to attend your street party, then you'll have to let them know about it! You can do that by distributing flyers with details door to door or set up a Facebook group (we did both). It's also a good way to get ideas on what activities people want and to solicit volunteers. But the communication needs to continue during the party as well! Have a speaker system so you can announce games and activities, or at a minimum, have a board displaying the day's agenda.

Streamers, bows, tinsel garland and other dollar store craft supplies are all you need to pretty up a bike

Chloe had a steady stream of customers at her lemonade stand

Organizing a street party can be daunting - you're basically throwing a party for 100 or so people! But with a bit of planning, you can create a day that leaves fun memories all summer long.

Do you have a street party? What fun activities do you do?

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If you're in the Greater Toronto Area, here are some resources I found helpful:
Street Event Guidelines
Street closure application
Toronto fireworks bylaws
Crowd control barricades
Special event insurance
Circus entertainer
Pre-packaged popcorn or cotton candy