Way back in 1986 when I moved to Roger Avenue in Kenilworth, the moms of the block revived an old tradition -the Fourth
of July block party.
I moved away from the block in 1989 - but I have never given up on the block party. Every year since, my family has returned, first with children in tow, and as they grew up, just the two of us.
And so it is throughout the North Shore - and not just on the Fourth of July. Every Memorial Day, Labor Day, and just any old day really, the barricades come out, tables are pulled from patios, music is turned on, and grills are fired up. Everyone shows up with potluck. Let the games begin!
Find out what's happening in Winnetka-Glencoewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Any neighborhood can have a block party and the different villages all allow them with some preparation and advance notice. Some towns even send over the firetrucks to surprise the children.
Winnetka
Find out what's happening in Winnetka-Glencoewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
If your block party closes off a public street (and most do) then you need to obtain permission from the Village - call them at 847-716-3541 or email to: kscanlan@winnetka.org. In Winnetka, the barricades for street closure can be picked up at the Public Works Department on Willow Road before 2:00 on the day before the event.
Kenilworth
The Village of Kenilworth requires completion of a written form to gain permission for a block party. You can get this at: Kenilworth Special Event Permit Application. The Public Works department will deliver barricades for the street closure.
Wilmette
The Village of Wilmette also requires completion of a permit and must be submitted at least 7 days before the event. The Village will deliver four barricades on Friday before the event and will pick them up the Monday after. Go to: Wilmette Block Party Permit
Glencoe
Glencoe has an application for permits which can be found at: Glencoe Block Party Permit. They are not set up electronically to receive it, but you can mail it, drop it off, or fax it. Barricades will be delivered by the Public Works department.
Northfield
To plan a block party in Northfield, please call the Village Manager at 847-446-9200 x2231 or email your request to: lgittel@northfieldil.org. Requests should be made at least a week in advance and include street, date, time, area to be closed, and a rain date if the event will be postponed due to weather. The Public Works department will deliver barricades a day before the event.
Glenview
Glenview's online permit application is straightforward - there is no minimum time frame given, but a minimum of 1 week should be given to make sure it gets approved. Go to: Glenview Block Party Application
I sell homes in the following areas:
Margaret Goss GRI, CRS
Baird & Warner, Winnetka IL
