Upper Arlington residents can sign up to host a free neighborhood gathering through the city's Porch Party program, with registration open through Sept. 30.
Hosts who register receive a free tote bag stocked with door hanger invitations, drink koozies, a UA history quiz and conversation starter pack, and a neighborhood connections contact sheet to fill out and share with guests. Bags are available first-come, first-served.
The program started in fall 2024 when Equal UA launched it to encourage small gatherings that bring together neighbors who might not typically spend time with one another, according to the city's website. The stated goal: combat social isolation and strengthen community one block at a time. For its first two years, the Community Relations Committee's Small Grant Program funded the effort. This year, the CRC folded Porch Parties into its official annual slate of welcoming activities.
No front porch required.
Gatherings can happen in a yard, inside a home or at a local park. The city encourages hosts to invite both newcomers and longtime neighbors they haven't connected with recently. On its Facebook page, the city described the program as a simple way to bring neighbors together and welcome new faces.
Registered households are asked to host their event by Oct. 15.
Once registered, hosts can pick up their tote bag at four locations:
- Bob Crane Community Center
- Tremont Library
- Lane Road Library
- Miller Park Library
Registration is available at parks.uaoh.net under Program #953000. The city plans to follow up with hosts in October to learn how events went and encourages participants to share photos on social media using #cityofua.
Upcoming dates
- Sept. 30 — Porch Party registration deadline
- Oct. 15 — Deadline to host your gathering
