Planning The Block Party

Block parties and BBQs are great this time of year. Typically, guests are asked to bring a dish to share and this is a fun time to show off a family favorite or enjoy fresh garden produce. Our neighborhood has monthly get-togethers, and often we propose a theme to help inspire. Here are a few of our favorites:

Chili Cook-Off

A chili cook-off is a great idea and feeds a neighborhood of folks! Vegetarian, no-bean, spicy, mild, green, red, so many options. Include a few chili-friendly side dishes like corn bread and green salad, as well as desserts and beverages, and the party makes itself. Introduce prizes for “Best-in” categories, and encourage the kids to participate in throwing together their favorite chili. Emeril Lagasse has a great recipe for chili with baby Bam in his kid’s cookbook.

70s Appetizer Party

Any era will work, just go back in time and find one that resonates in your neighborhood. Maybe most of the homes were built in the 50s, so have a 1950s-themed party. Encourage neighbors to bring a dish that was popular during that time. Bacon wrap-arounds, celery chunks filled with Roquefort and cream cheese, and deviled ham and mushroom canapes were all party hits in the 50s. In the 70s, think about turning up the disco music along with Swedish meatballs, deviled eggs and Velveeta-inspired chili con queso dip. Don’t forget the matching cocktail!

Pancake Breakfast

Everyone loves a good pancake breakfast, and coordinating a neighborhood party with this theme is straightforward. The hosts can handle the pancakes, using a classic buttermilk pancake recipe. Ask other neighbors to bring fruit salad or kebabs, frittatas or quiches, and/or muffins, scones or quick breads. Serve orange juice and mimosas and enjoy a beautiful late-summer brunch.

Block party planning does not need to be difficult – set a date and send invitations. Encourage neighbors to bring chairs, reusable plates and cups, and draft a few folks to help with setup and cleanup. And if you decide to close the street for more fun, be sure to contact your local office of transportation for details.

What is your go-to block party dish?

Gudrun Enger is @kitchengirl and blogs at Food in the Kitchen.