Once a common occurrence, the New York City block party suffered a period of near-extinction. But now it’s poised for a comeback. Last year’s launch of Block Party NYC made it easier for New Yorkers to plan their own events or locate parties already in the works, and even provides small grants to help out (apply now — the 2009 deadline is next Monday, June 1).

As we celebrate the liberation of Times Square for human activity, this
epic Streetfilm from Elizabeth Press nicely explains the historical and
present-day significance of the traditional block party, which allows
residents across the city to enjoy the benefits of car-freedom right in
their own neighborhoods.