Host Your Own Event
Hosting your own block party is a fulfilling way to improve the safety of your neighborhood, while having fun and building relationships with your neighbors. Interested? Here are the steps necessary to host your own event
1. Let us Know You're Interested
Register online or call the Glendale Police Department at 818-548-4015 and let us know that you would like to host your own party. We'll send you a registration form and let you know if you need to additional paperwork. Which brings us to..
2. Pull Permits (If Necessary)
Some parties are low-key, others may close off entire neighborhood blocks. We will help you determine if you will need to pull any permits in order to host your event. Applicable permits include Certificate of Liability Insurance for block closures, Amplified Sound Permits, and Special Events Permits. You may also call the City Clerk's Office at 818-548-4000 for more information regarding permits.
3. Pick a Theme
Although it's not necessary to pick a theme, who doesn't like a good theme party? Here are a few of our favorites
- Luau Party
- Stars & Stripes
- Mardi Gras
- Ice Cream Social
- BBQ
- Potlock
4. Provide Fun Activities
Get creative with this one. You know your neighbors best, what activities might draw them to your event? Here are a few ideas to get you started
- Hula Hoop Contest
- Water Balloon Toss
- Parade
- Best Costume Contest
- Best Recipe Award
- Trivia (related to the neighborhood, or just trivia in general)
5. Start Planning!
In our experience, there are a few key factors that will ensure you have a great gathering. Use the following tips and your evening will go off without a hitch.
- Invite everyone
- Start planning early
- Provide activities for children
6. Get Organized
Recruit volunteers and begin planning your event. Make sure to promote the following as soon as possible:
- Event Theme
- Location
- Time Frame
Within your group of volunteers, figure out the following well in advance of the party
- Task Assignments
- Food
- Decorations
- Games/Activities
- Set-Up
- Clean-Up
7. Game Time! Now What?
The planning is done, it's time to have fun and host your party! Let's break down every phase of the party.
Warm-Up
As guests arrive, have each person fill out a nametag to wear. Once you feel your guests have settled in, begin by explaining the purpose of National Night Out. Inform your guests that
- National Night Out is supported by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs and U.S. Dept. of Justice.
- It’s a great way for neighbors to get to know each other. Studies show that when neighbors know each other communities are safer and crime decreases. Last year, over 37 million people participate in National Night Out nationwide.
- Your event will receive a visit from a City of Glendale elected official and City staff including police officers and firefighters.
Party in Full Swing
Once all of your guests have arrived and introductions are out of the way, you can begin to discuss issues and playing games.
- This is the perfect time to promote Neighborhood Watch basics – get to know your neighbors, update news in the neighborhood, understand how to relay suspicious activities to the police.
- Establish and promote the Glendale Neighborhood and Block Coordinator Program for emergency preparedness.
- This can also be strictly fun – a time to get-together and get to know more about your neighbors and friends.
- You can also use this time to find out what your neighbors feel are issues or concerns. Discuss ways to meet later for follow up. Don’t get too bogged down – remember this should be a fun event!
- Create a Neighborhood Map
- Collect names, addresses and phone numbers.
- Could include pets, email, work phones. Etc.
- Decide who will meet with those neighbors unable to come that night.
- Add their information.
Winding Down
Thank all of your guests for coming, and remind them just how important it is to have a unfiied neighborhood front to fight against crime. Begin clean-up process once guests have left.