Mt. Greenwood, a neighborhood on Chicago’s Far Southwest Side, may not always make headlines, but it consistently creates a unique sense of community that larger, bustling parts of the city can struggle to maintain. One of the biggest reasons behind this strong sense of togetherness is the tradition of block parties, which have become more than just a way to close the street for a day of fun—they’re the heartbeat of the neighborhood. Block parties are typically hosted on weekends during the summer when the weather is nice. It’s not uncommon to discover other neighborhood block parties by unexpectedly encountering a road closure on your usual route home or a friend inviting you over.
These block parties are a slice of old-school Chicago charm, where neighbors come together to enjoy food, drinks, music, and games, turning a simple street into a lively hub of friendship and celebration. Whether it’s a barbecue grill smoking in the corner, kids racing up and down the street, or adults gathering in lawn chairs to swap stories, there’s a contagious energy that fills the air. It’s the kind of atmosphere that encourages people to step out of their homes, meet the people they may have only nodded to in passing, and build lasting connections.
In a time when many people have become increasingly isolated, with everyone rushing to their next obligation, Mt. Greenwood’s block parties slow down time just enough for neighbors to truly connect. You see families sharing meals, kids playing together without a care in the world, and even older residents reminiscing about how things “used to be.” These gatherings help everyone feel like they’re part of something larger than themselves—a true community where people care about one another. It’s also a time of year when you can catch up on your neighbors’ progress, whether it’s improvements to their yard or home, their fitness achievements, or seeing new additions to their families.
One of the most important things about these block parties is how they make the neighborhood feel alive. For one day, an entire street is electrified, and the usual quiet of suburban life gives way to the festive feeling of a village fair. They’re more than just fun events; they foster a deep sense of belonging, reminding everyone that, despite the hustle and bustle of modern life, we are all part of the same neighborhood.
Mt. Greenwood’s block parties are also a reminder of the power of human connection. In a world where people are increasingly reliant on technology to communicate, these events offer a chance to experience community in its most genuine form—face-to-face. They reinforce the idea that community isn’t just about living in the same area but about building relationships, creating memories, sharing experiences, and supporting one another. We’ve had firefighters bring their fire engine for the kids to explore, opened fire hydrants, set up inflatable bounce houses, and held raffles for everyone to participate in. When I asked my students about their favorite part of block parties, they told me that riding their bikes and scooters on the closed-off streets is one of the most liberating experiences of the summer.
For the residents of Mt. Greenwood, these block parties are not only a summer tradition,they are an essential part of what makes the neighborhood feel like home—a place where you know your neighbors, share your lives, and come together to celebrate both the ordinary and the extraordinary. Last year, I had the chance to invite friends over, compete (and lose) in a bean bag tournament, and celebrate with my eighty-year-old neighbor until sunrise. You never know who on the block might need that connection the most, but by being fully present and making the most of the day, you can help ensure everyone enjoys themselves.
As Chicago continues to grow and change, it’s comforting to know that neighborhoods like Mt. Greenwood still value the traditions that make a community strong. It’s these small, meaningful events that remind us all what it means to be part of something larger, to live not just next to one another but with one another. So, here’s to Mt. Greenwood’s block parties—a simple yet powerful reminder of the magic of community.