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Hello,
I hope you are well and enjoying the summer so far. In the spirt of the season, we have a question about block party etiquette. A couple of families that live at the end of the block would like to set up their table closer to where the activities (inflatable water slide, DJ, face painting, etc.) will be. Some families at ‘prime’ locations have elected not to participate (even though they did gracefully contribute). Do the relocating families need to ask the non-participating families for permission to set up in front of the latter’s house? The relocators’ position is that since their tables will be located on the street – public property – they are not obliged to ask. Your valued advice is greatly appreciate. Many thanks!
Dear Marc,
Those homeowners who are participating should invite their fellow revelers who are in the “hinterlands” to come on over and set up their tables in front of their houses, thus “doubling up” on the fun. I agree those who have declined to participate shouldn’t be imposed upon with people milling about in front of their homes, regardless of the right of way or street being public property, and especially in view of the fact they were gracious enough to contribute monetarily. This solution is fair to everyone.
You are right that it is public property and therefore, no permission is technically needed. However, since a block party is for the purpose of community and getting to know each other, I believe that it would be in everyone’s best interest to ask permission. This will show that the ones asking are being considerate of the families that are not participating and it will give the ones asked the opportunity to extend a hand of frienship and allow it.
With all that in mind, however, be prepared to also respect the choice if someone says No. If they would prefer that someone didn’t set up in front of their house, then, since it was asked, that should be respected and no-hard feelings should araise out of it. I think that is where the real difficulty could come from.
I would imagine that since the non-participating families will be gracious and allow it – since they did very kind contribute. But of course, one should never assume.
I hope you all have a wonderful time and I sincerely hope this brings the neighborhood together in the way you hope.
Good morning and thank you for your helpful suggestions. In fact, we decided to take Graceandhonor’s advice: several households combined their efforts and there was more than enough room for everyone. The party was a huge success. We’ve already started planning next year’s! All the best, Marc
Great news! Thanks for checking back to let us all know how it went.