Historic Day of Blockbuster Block Parties Set in Chatham Twp.

It’s as old as Small Town, USA itself, where neighbors become friends and communities evolve into families.

The block party.

And in Chatham Township, there are three main areas known for their block parties, and it just so happens the three, unbeknownst to one another, planned their annual event for the same day – this Saturday, Sept. 19.

The neighborhoods – Rolling Hill, The Highlands, and Wickham Woods – have tremendous history both individually and together.

The Rolling Hill neighborhood block party goes back to the 1970s and was a picnic setup. The event was such a grand success annually that Cathy Crandell, a homeowner there who moved to Wickham Woods, began a neighborhood association there and subsequently a block party that has been held for more than 20 years.

The Rolling Hills Association began in 1957 and is a volunteer organization focused on bringing neighbors together through social events. Portions of the association’s dues and event fees benefit the Chatham Emergency Squad. Find out more about the Rolling Hill Association and Saturday’s block party here.

While only celebrating for half as long as Rolling Hill, Wickham Woods annual celebration grew exponentially as well.

The neighborhood used to have grill masters wheel their outdoor burger making machines to the middle of the street until attendance grew so high, it was agreed upon the gathering would be catered.

Find out more about Wickham Woods here.

As is the theme with the block parties, DJs and plenty of entertainment are on hand, and at The Highlands youngsters will be able to check out a fire truck from the local department as well. Proceeds from the block party in The Highlands will directly benefit cancer patients at Overlook Hospital.

Chatham is known for its outstanding police department, top-notch schools, and overall bucolic setting in which to live.

The residents, however, are what make the community one of the premier places in New Jersey to live, and they certainly know how to party.

Pictured: Block party invitation from 1976. Photo Courtesy Jen Rein