Block Parties

Why plan a block party

  • Have fun! You don't need a special reason to celebrate.
  • Create an opportunity to get to know your neighbours.
  • Establish new friendships.
  • Increase the sense of belonging in your community.
  • Share resources or interests. Think carpools, babysitters, gardening or book clubs.
  • Build pride in your neighbourhood which encourages everyone to take care of it.
  • Promote a safe and caring neighbourhood where everyone looks out for each other.
  • Ensure you are there for each other in case of emergency.
  • Learn who might need a little extra help from time to time.
  • Meet some of the long-standing neighbours who can share some of the history of the place.

Tips for planning a block party

  • Think simple: Activities can be free, easy, and stress free. Consider your time availability, and the space accessible for gatherings.
  • Ask for support: Ask around to see who else wants to be involved in an organizing role. More often than not, people want to be helpful, but just need to be asked.
  • Be open and curious: Take advantage of the skill sets on your block. There are undoubtedly many interesting individuals with lots of creative ideas.
  • Be persistent: If an activity is a bit of a flop, don’t get too disheartened. Try something else next time, or maybe adjust the time or location and try the same activity again.
  • Connect with community groups: Colwood has amazing stewardship and arts & culture groups that may have helpful ideas, activities or connections. Learn about groups at www.colwood.ca/Volunteering

Fill out a Special Event application 

This allows the City to help you plan for success by confirming there are no scheduling conflicts with other City events or City works, ensuring safety has been considered, mitigating community impacts such as parking, traffic, and noise, prevent damage to City infrastructure and assets, and ensuring the City bylaw team is aware your event is permitted in case support is needed or complaints are received. 

Fill out the quick online application at www.colwood.ca/EventApplication