Action Sandy Hill’s call to action: Make this a block party summer!

Betsy Schuurman, with Mikaela Kennedy

My block on Besserer first started hosting a block party in 2019. I was surprised at how easy it was to plan—just decide on a date, fill out a form, and pick up the barricades and traffic cones. We use a “bring a chair and something to share” model. Usually someone will wheel out a grill, and the kids on the street absolutely love being able to run around without worrying about cars. One year a fire truck was driving by and stopped to see what was going on; we invited them to join the block party! On the east end of Besserer the annual block party brings residents together to form a band, and Blackburn has seen regular block parties since the 1980s.

This summer, Action Sandy Hill wants to help our neighbours host and promote block parties. Whether you already know your neighbours or are introducing yourself for the first time, block parties are a great way to lift our spirits and build community. So, what are the steps to hosting a party in Sandy Hill?

1.  Talk to some people you know on your block. Is there a weekend that most people will be around? July and August are great for weather but more neighbors may be available in September. Besserer between Chapel and Augusta usually has its block party near the end of September.

2.  Pick a block to have the party on. Neighbours on multiple blocks can come together to plan a party, but intersections at cross streets cannot be blocked off. Live on one of the main streets? Talk to neighbours on a side street where the City will have fewer concerns about limiting traffic access.

3.  Pick someone to serve as the point person for the permit and for signing the City’s liability waiver. It’s all free.

4.  Fill out the “residential block party permit” form on the City of Ottawa website. Remember to submit the form at least 28 days before the event so City staff have time to review the request.

5.  Follow the instructions that come with the permit approval, including returning the liability waiver and picking up the barricades and traffic cones. If you need help getting the barricades, contact ASH.

6.  Provide invitations and notice of the street closure to residents on your block. We recommend inviting your neighbours to bring their own food and drinks, or bring some to share if they feel so inclined. Reduce garbage by asking people to bring cutlery, dishes and cups from home. If you need help printing invitations and notices, contact ASH.

7.  Make sure to have volunteers at each end of the block who can move the barricades if anyone needs to come through.

8.  Have a great party!

Blackburn neighbours have shared craft materials for bike decorating and a bike parade. You may want to bring a speaker for music or games to play. It’s up to you and your neighbours to decide what you’d like to do.

If you’d like your block party to be advertised on Action Sandy Hill’s social media, send the details to info@ash-acs.ca. You can also email us if you need help with any of the steps.