The permitted block party is the most authentically New York event there is and the least documented — a single residential street closes, the grills come out, somebody wheels a speaker onto the sidewalk, and the kids get the roadbed for the day. This one runs on 134th Street in South Ozone Park, deep in the southeast Queens grid where these parties are a summer institution. If you want to see the city at its most local, walk onto a block like this one instead of buying a ticket to something.
What to expect
The street is barricaded at both ends and given over to the block: expect folding tables, grills, coolers, a sound system, and children using the asphalt for whatever they want. Some blocks bring in bouncy castles or face painting. It's a neighborhood gathering rather than a public festival, so arrive as a guest rather than a customer.
Good to know
- Deep in the southeast Queens grid — buses and driving are more practical than the subway
- Free to attend; it's a residential street party, not a ticketed event
- Street parking on and around the block disappears once barricades go up
- Bring something to share if you plan to stay — it's the local etiquette
- Genuinely family-friendly, with kids using the closed roadbed all afternoon
- Weather-dependent; rain can cancel a block party outright
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Common questions
Can anyone attend a block party?
The street is public and closed for public use, so yes — though these are neighborhood gatherings, so behave like a guest.
Is there a cost?
No. Block parties are free; food is usually brought and shared by residents.
Where do I park?
Not on the block — it's barricaded. Expect to park several streets away and walk.
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