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In Winkler, gathering as a neighbourhood and connecting as a community can happen just steps from one’s front door.
‘It’s a good chance to catch up’
The city has a program that makes it convenient to organize the sort of festivities that tend to see a great deal of enthusiasm — block parties.
“It's a great way to meet new neighbours,” said Wendy Klassen, assistant city manager. “Often you see your neighbours in passing, but that's about all, so it's a good chance to catch up and get to know them a little better.”
The process
For anyone interested in organizing a block party, there is an application on the City of Winkler website.
Klassen shared what one can expect from an approved application.
“It basically gives permission to close the street and let them use the street,” she said. “If they're closing off the street, we need approval from the police chief just to make sure it's a safe area to do so, ... and then we will also provide some barricades.”
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The city’s application also includes a planning guide and printable invitations for block parties.
After filling out the form, the rest is straightforward, according to Klassen.
“You just get your neighbours to all bring some food and have a good time,” she said.
Applications for block parties in Winkler are available throughout the year.
With files from Alexander Peters