Summer nights come alive at Doylestown Block Parties

Doylestown Borough is once again transforming its streets into a lively outdoor dining experience along with outside shopping, live music and even games as the Borough Block Parties return for their fifth year. This popular weekend event, launched in 2020 as a creative response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has now become an annual summer tradition.

The first Block Party weekend of the year took place May 3 and 4 on N. Main Street (State to Court streets). From now through September the Block Parties will be held on alternating Fridays and Saturdays during which time different downtown streets will be closed creating pedestrian-only zones from 5 pm to 11 pm. 

Restaurants spill out into the streets with expanded seating, while local shops often stay open later, sometimes displaying racks of merchandise outdoors. Although primarily an outside dining experience, over time, many local businesses have taken advantage of the additional customers flowing into town by expanding their hours to accommodate the crowd.

"We started this event in 2020 during COVID to support businesses since restaurants couldn’t allow people inside," said Caitlin Hernandez, Director of Parks and Recreation for Doylestown Borough. “We thought it would just be something to help businesses during COVID, but it became such a well-attended event that we continued it.”

Although they began with just a few restaurants and shops, the Block Parties have grown significantly in both size and popularity. “Over time, they expanded to more seating outside, live music, and games for kids,” Hernandez explained. “We close the streets and give these businesses a blank canvas of what to offer, and they’ve really used the opportunity to provide additional family-friendly attractions like hiring outdoor musicians. It’s great.”

The events rotate locations to give various businesses on different streets in the borough the chance to participate. Hernandez notes, “Each street gets back-to-back dates so they can plan accordingly. I’m still getting additional restaurants who want to get involved in the future.”

The impact of the Block Parties is felt throughout the borough, not just by business owners, but by residents and by out-of-town visitors. 

“The community responded to it in a very positive way,” said Hernandez. “That community spirit is what keeps the energy high, no matter the weather. “I think the community aspect of it appeals to all people. Even if it’s a hot evening, people still come out,” she added.

The Block Parties not only support the local economy but also offer a unique summer experience that blends Doylestown's small-town charm with the big energy of patrons wanting to dine, shop and have fun in this historic community. 

Reservations are recommended for dining; guests should contact restaurants directly. Final seating is at 10 pm. The Block Parties are sponsored by Doylestown Borough and continue to grow in popularity each year, promising an exciting 2025 season.

Don’t miss the upcoming 2025 Doylestown Borough Block Parties:

• May 30–31 – Printer’s Alley (off E. State Street)
• June 6–7 – West Court (Hamilton to Harvey streets)
• June 27–28 – N. Main Street
• July 11–12 – W. State Street
• July 25–26 – N. Main Street
• August 8–9 – W. State Street
• August 22–23 – Printer’s Alley
• September 12–13 – N. Main Street
• September 26–27 – W. State Street

Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, the Doylestown Borough Block Parties are the perfect way to enjoy summer evenings in the community.