Block Party Information

Block parties are a great way for neighbors to get to know each other and, therefore, cultivate a welcoming and safe community for everyone. The Village of Gurnee encourages these outdoor events, hosted by residents, by supplying barricades and coordinating visits from the Police Department & Fire Department.

In order to host the event, login to the Village online portal and submit a block party application. At that time, you will also be able to indicate whether or not you would like the Police Department and Fire Department to visit the event. The Village will process the application, notify the applicant and provide barricades to safely close the designated street. It is important the host notifies all residents on the affected street.

The Village of Gurnee is committed to encouraging community engagement, and what better way to get to know your neighbors than by hosting a block party?!

Neighbor Up Block Party Grant Program ($500)

Block parties must be approved by the Village of Gurnee to be eligible for the grant. In order to host the event, login to the Village online portal and submit a block party application.

Block parties that receive grant funds shall be free and allow all residents in the neighborhood to participate in the block party.

One block party can receive up to $500 in reimbursement. If all funds aren’t used at the first block party, it can be used for another block party at the same location and in the same calendar year.

A subdivision can receive this grant up to 4 times, but the block parties must be in different areas of the subdivision each time a new grant is received. (Not the same street section or cul-de-sac being served)

Non-for-profit organizations that are located within residential neighborhoods may apply for the block party grant, as long as their event remains free and open to the surrounding neighborhood and is not promotional in nature.

Grant Reimbursement

Each block party grant will reimburse eligible expenses up to $500.
Eligible expenses include: food, soft drinks, paper goods, door prizes, play equipment rentals, and entertainment/performers
Ineligible expenses include: alcohol and gift cards.
More information on reimbursement will be sent to the event contact person on the block party permit application.
If approved for the block party grant, a free block party starter basket will be available for pickup at Village Hall the week leading up to your party.
For more information, contact Matt Trujillo at (847) 599-7517 or via email at mtrujillo@village.gurnee.il.us

Block Party FAQ

Are the Police Department, Fire Department, and Mayor Hood guaranteed to show up?

The Police Department, Fire Department, and Mayor Hood enjoy interacting with our residents and will do their best to make it to your Block Party for a visit. Calls for emergencies are the top priority; however, they will plan for a brief visit if possible during your event.

Can we set up a portable restroom outside?

The Village does recommend you use your own bathroom facilities, or that of your neighbor (with their permission). However, we understand that some individuals would rather set up a portable restroom. These are permitted as long as they are not on the street and safely placed on the right of way.

Can we have a neighborhood party instead of a block party?

The extent of the invite list is up to the host. However, for safety reasons, the Village recommends closing a street (not used for public transportation) versus closing a whole neighborhood. The Gurnee Park District does offer park rentals for larger events.

How do I receive and return the Village provided barricades?

Members of the Public Works Department will drop off barricades a business day prior to the event at the address of the applicant. The Department will retrieve the the barricades the following business day at the same location.

How do I set up a block party?

Choose a date.
Choose a location.
Fill out a block party permit at least five (5) business days in advance).
Invite all neighbors on the residential street.
Coordinate what each household will bring such as games, food, drinks and activities.
Coordinate those responsible to monitor the barricades for public safety vehicles and resident access.
Enjoy the day of your event!
Show off your block party online and tag the Village of Gurnee.
Continue the community cohesion by cleaning up after the event.