Definition
A social gathering organized by residents of a neighborhood block, typically featuring food, music, games, and community activities held on a city street that is temporarily closed to traffic. It serves as a way to strengthen community bonds and celebrate neighborhood togetherness.
Example Usage
The neighborhood is throwing a block party this Fourth of July with live music and a potluck dinner.
Origin
Emerged in urban America in the 1970s and 1980s as communities sought to reclaim public streets for social connection.
Fun Fact
Block parties became particularly iconic in hip-hop culture, with DJs spinning records on street corners in the Bronx in the 1970s, laying the groundwork for modern hip-hop.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
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See “Blockparty” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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