In response to the loneliness epidemic exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Cambridge “revamped” its block party program “to make it easier for folks to participate,” said Melissa Peters, assistant city manager for community development. It’s since seen growth in permit applications over the last four years.
Although the Department of Transportation has approved permits to shut down streets for block parties for decades, the city began providing grants in 2022 to reimburse hosts for the cost of food and other amenities. It now offers $300 to offset costs, as well as yard games.
The city also loosened restrictions in 2023 on applying for block party permits. No longer is there a $25 permit application fee. Fewer signatures are now required for neighborhood approval, and the timeline is shorter. Instead of approvals from 75% of households (or apartment building residents) within 30 days of an event, organizers now need support from 25% within 14 days.
The program has seen nearly 100 permit applications each year since it loosened restrictions. In 2026, the city has approved 80 permits so far.
The city’s interest in block parties is “just growing,” said Peters. She notes that although the city sees repeat hosts from year to year, there are new additions every year. “We’ve seen more applications from schools and community organizations who want to feel more connected to the communities they serve, and so this has been super exciting to see,” she said.
To boost the program, the city began advertising its resources for parties at Bluebike stations, noting that in 2023 – the first year of growth – residents in each neighborhood applied for block party permits, but anecdotally, Cambridge Highlands was the least represented.
“We love that there are repeat hosts and that’s become a formal gathering for that neighborhood, but we do want to continue to see it grow to more blocks and neighborhoods throughout the city,” Peters said.
As daylight shortens and temperatures cool, the typical block party season is winding down. However, Peters says Cambridge is thinking about how the block party season can become more year-round. Last year, the city piloted a series of winter events called Winter Mix, which included outdoor and indoor events throughout February. City officials say they are likely to repeat or expand that program this coming winter.
“We’re thinking of providing community spaces – school gymnasiums or youth centers – as places where people can come,” said Peters. “We definitely are open to more ideas about how to help that.”
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