Simple event ideas to Build Neighborhood connections

1. Host a regular monthly gathering, same time, no RSVP needed.  If your neighbors don't like formal meeting formats, consider a monthly soup social at your house. Simple ideas: provide the soup, neighbors  bring a baguette or drink to share, and their own bowl. Same time every month and no RSVP was necessary. A regular gathering that requires no commitment and little forethought makes for an easygoing gathering.
2. Host a porch party.  If you are lucky enough to have a porch, consider an evening cheese and wine, or a Sunday afternoon tea drop in session. This is not too much work and a great way to socialize with your neighbors.
3. Coordinate a neighborhood yard sale. Garage sale, tag sale, yard sale…whatever name you go by, this is a good way to clear out your home’s clutter and help your neighbor do the same.
4. Organize a block party.  This one does involve a little work and cost, but if you share the coordinating duties with other neighbors and keep it simple (at least that first year), this is an easy way to get to know your neighbors. City of Asheville does charge to close a street. But if you choose National Night Out, (August) the Neighbor coordinator might be able to get it waived.
5. Host a backyard movie night. If you have a flat back yard, consider asking neighbors to bring their own chairs, create a screen from either the side of the house or a plywood sheet, rent a projector and treat the neighborhood to your favorite movie. But keep it PG rated–it will be outdoors, after all, and weather dependent.
6. Establish a neighborhood watch program. Unfortunately due to funding issues, APD is not able to coordinate these programs. There is a private program offered by an ex APD officer. This is the website www.apdcrimeprevent.com. Call APD Colby Fox at 828 259 5834 who also might be able to help you organize against crime.
7. Treat your neighbors to a front-yard concert. This one also has some cost to it, but music has always  brings people together. Many would welcome a guitarist strumming on his front steps but perhaps not a full band.
8. Seed swop. Spread the word amongst your gardening neighbors and host a drop in seed, plant start, swop.