Coming February 11, Neighbor Appreciation Day

On Saturday February 11th Seattle will mark the 18th annual Neighbor Appreciation Day. The day prompts neighbors to reach out, create new bonds, and express thanks to those who live or work around them.

The event started in 1995 when Mayor Norm Rice proclaimed that the Saturday before Valentine's Day would be a day to honor neighbors. The observance has grown every year since.

Here are some of the ideas from the city website for Neighbor Appreciation Day.


Join in a neighborhood service project:

• Clean up a nearby park: Contact Seattle Parks and Recreation for information at (206) 684-8028 or email ParksVolunteer@Seattle.Gov
• Paint a fence, rake leaves or other yard cleanup - especially of a senior adult or disabled neighbor
• Plant a tree or some native plants
• Build a garden box for this spring's plantings
• Clean up a sidewalk for an easier walking path
• Work with a local school or non-profit organization
• Have a neighborhood clean-up

Organize a neighborhood event:

• Organize a Block Watch, a program of Seattle Police Department: Click here for tools and information.  
• Hold a neighborhood  food or clothing drive
• Have a neighborhood BBQ, potluck, pancake breakfast or spaghetti feed
• Organize a SNAP (Seattle Neighborhoods Actively Prepared) meeting. Click here for tools and information.
• Organize a game or sporting event
• Have a block party
• Invite neighbors over for dessert
• Have an emergency preparedness meeting with your neighbors
• Organize a neighborhood rummage or garage sale

Other Possible Ideas:

• Go for a bike ride with your neighbor and check out the local scenery
• Stop by your local Fire station and meet the crew.
• Find other neighbors who play instruments and play music or start a band
• Go for a hike with some neighbors
• Hold a voter registration drive
• Have a progressive event: do a progressive dinner or a progressive work party
• Have a cookie exchange or dessert party
• Hold a 'Stencil a Storm Drain' party.  Click here for more information.
• Hold a bake sale for charity or to raise money for a neighborhood project
• Visit your local park with a neighbor
• Have a treasure hunt in your neighborhood
• Have a book exchange