How to Plan an Unforgettable Block Party in Belton, MO

A Step-by-Step Guide to Bringing Your Community Together with Food, Games, and a Themed Outdoor Movie Night

Planning a block party is one of the best ways to bring your neighbors together, build a sense of community, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re hosting your first block party in Belton, MO, or you’re a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your event a smashing success. From picking a theme to setting up the ultimate outdoor movie night, we’ve got you covered.

Step 1: Choose Your Theme

Every great block party starts with a fun theme that ties everything together. For Belton, MO’s friendly neighborhoods, consider a “Summer Under the Stars” theme. This theme is perfect for a late-afternoon gathering that transitions into an outdoor movie night, offering a magical experience for all ages.

Step 2: Rent an Outdoor Movie Setup

An outdoor movie is the perfect centerpiece for your block party. It’s family-friendly, fun, and sets the mood for your “Summer Under the Stars” theme. For an easy and professional setup, consider renting a movie screen and equipment from Asherah Productions. They offer:

  • A giant inflatable movie screen.
  • High-quality projectors and sound systems.
  • Setup and teardown services, so you can focus on enjoying the event.

Reach out to them early to secure your rental, especially during busy seasons.

Step 3: Plan the Schedule

To keep your block party running smoothly, create a clear schedule. Here’s a sample timeline:

  • 3:00 PM: Begin setup (close the street, decorate, set up tables and chairs).
  • 4:00 PM: Guests arrive, icebreaker games begin.
  • 5:30 PM: Food service opens (more on that below).
  • 6:30 PM: Group games and activities.
  • 8:00 PM: Movie time under the stars.

Step 4: Food & Drinks

Food is one of the highlights of any block party. For a “Summer Under the Stars” theme, consider these ideas:

Main Dishes:

  • Grilled Hot Dogs and Burgers – Simple, crowd-pleasing, and easy to cook on-site.
  • Taco Bar – Provide tortillas, meat (or vegetarian options), and plenty of toppings for a fun DIY station.
  • Pizza Party – Partner with a local pizzeria in Belton for bulk discounts.

Snacks & Sides:

  • Popcorn (perfect for movie time!)
  • Fruit skewers or a fruit salad.
  • Chips and dips (guacamole, queso, and salsa).

Desserts:

  • Ice cream bar with toppings.
  • S’mores kits for a DIY marshmallow roasting station.
  • Star-shaped cookies to tie in the theme.

Drinks:

  • Lemonade, iced tea, and water stations.
  • BYOB for adults (optional, depending on your neighborhood’s preference).

Step 5: Games & Activities

Keep your guests entertained with fun games and activities for all ages.

Kid-Friendly Games:

  • Face painting or temporary tattoos.
  • Water balloon toss (perfect for summer weather).
  • DIY craft stations (like decorating glow-in-the-dark stars).

Games for All Ages:

  • Cornhole tournament.
  • Giant Jenga or Connect 4.
  • Scavenger hunt around the neighborhood.

Pre-Movie Entertainment:

Before the movie starts, set up a photo booth with props like oversized sunglasses, star wands, and movie clapperboards.

Step 6: Movie Selections

Pick a movie that fits your theme and appeals to all ages. Here are a few suggestions for your “Summer Under the Stars” block party:

  • Family-Friendly Classics: The Sandlot, Finding Nemo, Zootopia.
  • Action & Adventure: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
  • Feel-Good Movies: The Greatest Showman, Sing.

Tip: Make sure to get a public performance license for the movie. Asherah Productions can guide you on this if needed.

Step 7: Locate Public Funding for Your Block Party

If you’re planning a large block party, you may be able to secure public funds or grants to offset costs. Here’s how:

  1. Contact the City of Belton:
    Reach out to the city’s community or parks and recreation department to see if they offer block party grants or support. Some cities provide barricades, trash bins, or even small monetary contributions.

  2. Apply for a Neighborhood Grant:
    Many local governments or non-profits offer neighborhood improvement grants that include funding for community events like block parties.

  3. Partner with Local Businesses:
    Approach businesses in Belton for sponsorships or donations. Offer to display their banner or mention them during the event in exchange for their support.

  4. Crowdfunding:
    If grants aren’t available, consider organizing a neighborhood crowdfunding campaign via platforms like GoFundMe. Even small contributions from multiple households can quickly add up.

Step 8: Tips for a Successful Block Party

Follow these tips to make sure your block party runs smoothly:

  1. Get the Necessary Permits:
    Contact the City of Belton to apply for any required street closure permits.

  2. Delegate Tasks:
    Form a block party committee and assign responsibilities like food prep, decorations, and clean-up.

  3. Promote the Event:
    Use flyers, neighborhood social media groups, or apps like Nextdoor to spread the word.

  4. Plan for Safety:
    Set up barricades for street closures, provide plenty of trash and recycling bins, and consider hiring a security guard if your event is large.

  5. Have Backup Plans:
    Prepare for unexpected weather by renting tents or having an indoor location as a backup.

Hosting a block party in Belton, MO, is a fantastic way to bring neighbors together, celebrate your community, and make memories under the stars. By incorporating a fun theme, renting an outdoor movie setup from Asherah Productions, and including plenty of food, games, and entertainment, your event is guaranteed to be a hit.

Remember, the key to a successful block party is planning ahead, keeping things organized, and creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. So, start planning your “Summer Under the Stars” block party today—and get ready for an unforgettable evening!