Neighborly neglect. We do it, too. A quick wave as you’re driving down the street, or a well-intended promise to get together and catch up…one of these days…before school starts for sure! Have you looked at your calendar lately? Not your daily schedule, the month-at-a-glance. The last fleeting weeks of summer are already upon us.
Time to fit in those to-dos that haven’t been done, like reconnect with the neighbors. Host that BBQ, let the kids stay up late for night games, light a bonfire. But might we suggest another super sweet and easy way to get the attention (and attendance) of your entire street? Throw an ice cream block party!
SPREAD THE WORD
Pick a date and alert the ’hood! (HINT: National Night Out is a good option if your area doesn’t already have an organized get-together on that date.) You can e-mail, text or use social media, which are all handy when summer busyness has neighbors coming and going. Or give this job to the kiddos. Have yours (and their buddies) come up with homemade invitations and hand-deliver them. Paper or digital, the kids will love being involved. Walk door to door with them and you may even get some real live face time before the big event.
SET IT UP
Backyard or patio works, but why not keep it front and center? This might encourage those who were on the fence to stop by for a quick hello. Scatter lawn chairs around and bring out a portable outdoor speaker and stream a warm-weather playlist. Create an outdoor buffet by using a patio, picnic or utility table topped with a washable tablecloth. Arrange the goodies in order and get ready for an easy and laid-back meet, greet and eat!
HOLD ON TIGHT
Start with the foundation and work up from there.
LAY IT ON THE LINE
The more choices, the more fun. Offer as many as your table and budget allow.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Remember to offer options for friends with dietary restrictions. Ice cream can be gluten free, but it isn’t always. Be sure to read labels and watch for added ingredients. The more natural and/or organic, the more likely they’ll be free from gluten. Most sorbets are gluten and dairy free; you could also include soy- or coconut-based options to cover those bases (and many of those qualify as vegan as well!).
EXPERT TIPS
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