Applications are now open for Block Party Bonanza!

Block Party Bonanza was officially launched today as part of the Mayor's Ring It On! initiatives to bring the nation's 250th anniversary celebration directly into neighborhoods across the city. Through a series of engaging public programs, the initiative aims to spark joy, celebrate local culture, and encourage meaningful civic participation.

Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal in partnership with Philadelphia250, Block Party Bonanza is a summer-long program that taps into Philadelphia's deep-rooted love of community and celebration while promoting civic engagement. The initiative brings a fresh take to a beloved city tradition by hosting block parties in neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia.

As part of the program, Philadelphia250 will support 250 block parties citywide with themed "Life, Liberty, and Happiness" kits-an homage to the Declaration of Independence-designed to foster community pride and celebration. Each kit will include decorations, games, activities, and giveaways for all ages. In addition, participating blocks will receive a $250 ShopRite gift card to help cover food and refreshments. All elements of Block Party Bonanza will be provided at no cost to residents.

Who can apply?

Every block of Philadelphia that is eligible for a block party permit is eligible to participate in the Block Party Bonanza.

How to apply.

Step 1: Block party permit

In order to be considered for the Block Party Bonanza program, first you need to apply for a block party permit through the Streets Department's block party permit process.

You must be a resident of the block where the event is being held.

You must provide a signed petition along with the application. Only one signature per household is allowed. The petitioner must be an adult and love on the block where the event will take place.

You can apply online, by mail, or in person.

If you have questions, call the Streets Department at (215) 686-5500 or (215) 686-5502 Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Step 2: Approval email

After your application goes through the normal block party permit review process, you will receive your approval email from the Streets Department.

Step 3: Register your interest

After you receive an approval email from the Streets Department for your block party permit, you will receive a subsequent email that will include a link and form to register your interest in the Block Party Bonanza program. You must use this link to register your interest in the program. Verify the link before submitting any personal information.

Step 4: Selection

Once approved, blocks that register their interest in Block Party Bonanza will be considered by Philadelphia250, on a first come, first served basis based on location and desired date. Participating block parties will be selected and notified individually.

Step 5: Next steps

Once selected, you will receive an email and/or phone call from the Philadelphia250 team to confirm that you were selected for the Block Party Bonanza program and make arrangements for next steps.

What dates will be considered?

Block Parties must take place between May 23 - October 3, 2026 in order to participate in the Block Party Bonanza program.

Need additional information?

Visit phlvisitorcenter.com/block-party-bonanza to learn more about the Block Party Bonanza program.

Download their Block Party Bonanza FAQ sheet.