Our Community in Fairfax County, Virginia

Every September, residents of Blundell Road close off part of their street one Saturday from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. and have a block party.  Here is what they recommend if you would like to arrange a block party:

First, talk to your neighbors.  Get their agreement to the idea of closing off the block, requiring them to park their cars outside of the block if they wish to leave during the party.  Get an idea of what would be a good day to hold the party, and how much they would be willing to help.  Talk to neighbors just outside of your block to find more people who would like to participate.  If you have agreement on a date and enough support, then proceed with the following steps.

• Visit the Mason District Police Station and fill out an Application for Road Use Authorization form at least one month before the party.  Make sure you note the four-digit number of the block you wish to close off (located under the street sign) as well as the number of the street(s) at either end of the block.


• Arrange for neighbors to provide grills (for cooking meat), tables, and chairs.  Get people to volunteer to provide napkins, paper plates, plastic utensils, and condiments, either as donations or reimbursed by a contribution from participants.


• Arrange for entertainment, such as a volleyball/badminton net across the street, ping-pong tables in the street, live music from the neighbors, recorded music with an amplifier and speakers, face painting, etc.


• Prepare and hand out flyers before the event for residents on the block and other participants.  Remind people to bring, cook, and eat their own meat, but also bring a side dish or dessert to share.


• Arrange to block off the road, using sawhorses, cones, or cars parked sideways.


• Have a great time!

Parties like these are one of the best ways to meet and learn more about your neighbors and make you feel part of a neighborhood.  It's also a lot of fun!