With the summer coming to a close, block party season is just getting started. It seems like every weekend there is a different block party, so there is always something to do on a Saturday! Each one is very different; some are very chaotic, while others are extremely laid back. But at the end of the day, there are 10 things which every block party has.

1. Bike parade at 10am to start the day off right

When I was younger I would go all out decorating my bike for this. Riding up and down the block, in the street, was so cool and an awesome way to start the day. As I got older, my ride got shorter and my bike stopped getting all the decorations. Now, I don't even participate in the parade, but it's still fun to see all the younger kids enjoying the same things I did years ago!

2. Jumping jack

Nothing screams block party like a jumping jack or any other blow up obstacle course. No matter how hot it is outside, it is never too hot for a quick jump or slide. Can you still do a front flip? Prove it.

3. Minute to win it games with cheap prizes

Which one of your neighbors can shake their butt the most? Who can inch an Oreo from their forehead to their mouth the fastest? These are both very good skills to have and the winners must be rewarded with plastic tops and multi-colored pens!

4. Raffles for the adults

Oil change anybody?! I've never seen so many people so invested in winning a block party raffle.

5. Hula Hoop contest

On my block, we get pretty into this one. We get down on our knees, have small children go under our legs, have a second hoop thrown around us, and more. (I've never lost, but who's keeping score?)

6. Average DJ

The cha cha slide stopped being fun two cha cha slides ago and it's too late now to say sorry about it.

7. Water balloon toss

PRO TIP: bring your own water balloon to the event that you filled up half way. Or put water in a real balloon because those don't pop as easily.

8. A visit from the local fire department

Who knew that water actually sprayed out of fire hydrants? I didn't know there was that much water stored under the street for those things. And fire safety is always important.

9. Seeing all your closest family and friends

All the cousins come over and you bond. You see all your aunts and grandma and great aunts and distant relatives, too. It's awesome to have all this time to get all caught up before going back to school.

10. Politicians

Politics are everywhere now. Can't complain when it means that all these people running for local offices come and try to buy our votes with free sno-cones and popcorn for all.