DuPagePads is bringing the block party back to downtown Naperville this summer

DuPagePads, the largest provider of interim and supportive housing in DuPage County for 40 years, is bringing a block party to downtown Naperville this summer.

Naperville Neighborly Day is a celebration of community through a traditional block party experience, providing a fun afternoon for all ages to enjoy while supporting DuPagePads’ mission to end homelessness. It will be 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9, on West Chicago Avenue, between Washington and Main streets.

In the heart of Naperville’s welcoming and historic downtown, the Block Party is bringing local food and drink, live music, and an opportunity to engage as a community about solutions to help end homelessness for local neighbors and families.

“This annual block party, formerly Old Naperville Day, is a community celebration that we are excited to have return after a two-year hiatus during the Washington Street bridge repairs,” said Chad Pedigo, chief development officer at DuPagePads. “The support that comes from Naperville Neighborly Day directly helps local families and individuals experiencing homelessness in Naperville and across our community.”

“We are also excited to recognize and celebrate some of the historic neighborhood businesses who have been a part of the Naperville community for many years, including Beidelman Furniture, Anderson’s Bookshop, Henczel’s Barbershop, Empire, Dean’s Fine Clothing and, of course the Lantern, who hosted the inaugural Block Party 10 years ago celebrating their 50th anniversary,” Pedigo said.

“Downtown Naperville has always been a place where people come together, and Naperville Neighborly Day celebrates that spirit of connection,” said Katie Wood, executive director of the Downtown Naperville Alliance. “We're proud to support an event that not only highlights our vibrant downtown businesses but also helps provide critical resources for neighbors experiencing homelessness. It's a great opportunity for our community to make a difference while enjoying a fun summer tradition.”

The free Naperville Neighborly Day Block Party will include live music from local bands from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., a bags tournament with prizes, family fun area for kids, food from local vendors including Naperville favorite Kreger’s Brats, and free Tuk Tuk Naperville shuttles to and from the Van Buren parking garage for guests attending the Block Party.

The music lineup will be School of Rock Naperville from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Tres Moustache from 1 to 2:30 p.m., OMT from 3 to 4:45 p.m. and the TBD Band from 5:15 to 7 p.m.

Naperville Neighborly Day is grateful for the support of this year’s sponsors and welcomes additional sponsors and vendor support to remain a no-entry-fee experience focused on camaraderie and community while supporting the belief that every neighbor should have a safe place to call home.

To learn more about how to be involved with the Block Party, visit dupagepads.org/event/naperblockparty/ or contact Carrie Flick, special events manager, at cflick@dupagepads.org.

With over 40 years of service, DuPagePads is the largest provider of services to those who are homeless in DuPage County. Its solution to ending homelessness is housing, coupled with support services and employment to transform lives. The administration office is located at 601 W. Liberty, Wheaton. For details, contact DuPagePads at (630) 682-3846 or dupagepads.org.