About Block Parties
Block Parties are recreational street closures for residents to hold an annual event for their neighborhood. In order to hold a block party, you must obtain a permit from the Department of Transportation to close your street. Street closures can occur from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm on the day of your event. Applications can be obtained from our office. Once the application is completed. please return it to our office for processing. We encourage you to submit your application at least 30 days in advance.
If this is your first time applying for a block party, our office asks that you communicate with your neighbors for support of the event. A house meeting to discuss dates & times is also highly recommended.
You may also request that a fire engine and crew from the Chicago Fire Department come by the Block Party. A form for this request is part of the application packet. The Police Department may also be able to provide a canine unit or mounted police for your event. Please let our office know if you would like for the Alderman to make a request for either. As other priorities may arise for the canine unit and mounted police, we cannot guarantee their presence even if they have confirmed their attendance.
Jumping Jack Application
In spring 2016, The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events announced that the Jumping Jack application will now be an online process. Applications will no longer be accepted in paper form, email, or fax. You can access the Jumping Jack application on the City of Chicago’s website. The Jumping Jack Program application has not yet opened for 2019. As soon as the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events announces the date, we will make sure to share it here and in our weekly e-newsletter.
Bicycling Ambassadors
Since 2001, the City of Chicago’s Bicycling Ambassadors have attended over 450,000 events and directly encouraged more than 600,000 people to ride bikes, walk, and use public transportation. Their service to the residents of the City of Chicago has earned them a nationwide reputation as the experts in bicycling safety.
The Bicycling Ambassadors are a free city service that is available year round. They attend a wide variety of events, from bike tours to health fairs to school events. Complete and online application to invite the Ambassadors to attend your block party.
