Rock Around the Block

Get Out and Meet Your Neighbors!

By Tamar Weiss

With temperatures on the rise, everyone is itching to be outdoors. And you certainly don't need to wait for July 4th or Labor Day weekend to throw an open-air bash! A block party is just the thing to get you better acquainted with your neighbors while enjoying summer's harvest and warm weather. For those people who are already friendly with their neighbors, block parties are an excuse to get together and catch up; for those who aren't, this is an ideal opportunity for you to get to know your fellow residents in a fun and relaxed setting.

Most people have, at one time or another, seen or participated in the "traditional" block party, where barbecued foods, cold drinks and salads are served in a blocked-off area of a residential neighborhood. Generally an activity is planned for the young participants while adults of the common locale become more familiar with one another. This is not to say that one shouldn't vary from the commonly known block party. Use any excuse to throw the party with whatever theme fits your fancy.

Susan, previously a resident of a Los Angeles suburb, recalls having an enforced curfew during the LA riots. The residents weren't permitted to leave the neighborhood after a certain hour, so they congregated and had a barbecue. One of the neighbors had a pool where young and old alike could relax and cool off, and everyone was able to take their minds off of what were otherwise upsetting circumstances. Susan jokes that she invited her entire block to all of her parties anyway. "This way nobody will call the police if it gets too loud," she says.

Want to see more?

• The Magic of Marinades: Add Ethnic Zest to Your Next Barbeque
• It's My Party and I'll Cry if I Want To: Tips for a Tear-Free Toddler Fete
• Now You're Cooking: Barbeque Basics for Beginners
• Talk about it!