Neighbor Day
Neighbor Day: Saturday, May 2, 2026
On Saturday, May 2, 2026, neighbors across Seattle will take a little time to connect; say hi, check in, share a laugh, or do something kind. No perfection required. No big plans needed. Just people, showing up for each other.
This year is extra special. Neighbor Day 2026 kicks off the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods’ 35th Anniversary, which is a yearlong celebration of community, connection, and the power of neighbors working together.
What is Neighbor Day
Neighbor Day began in 1995 as a proclamation from Mayor Norm Rice as “a special day to celebrate the goodness in those around us” and strengthen our bonds with one another.
Since then, Neighbor Day has grown into a citywide tradition. Some host block parties or potlucks. Others wave from a window, introduce themselves in the hallway, or help carry groceries. All of it counts.
Neighbor Day isn’t about doing the most.
It’s about doing something. Even something small, because all kindness makes a difference.
You Belong Here (Yes, YOU!)
You don’t need a yard, a fence, or a front porch to be a good neighbor.
Most Seattleites are renters. Many live in apartments, condos, duplexes, or shared housing. Neighbor Day belongs to everyone: whether you’ve lived in your place for 20 years or moved in last week.
Being a good neighbor can look like:
- Saying hello in the hallway
- Learning one person’s name
- Checking in with someone who lives alone
- Smiling at the bus stop
- Sending a quick “nice to meet you” text
Whatever you have time for, it’s more than enough.
How to Celebrate Neighbor Day
There’s no right way to do Neighbor Day. Here are a few ideas. Take what works for you and leave the rest.
Quick & Easy
- Say hello to someone you usually pass quietly
- Introduce yourself to a neighbor you’ve never met
- Leave a kind note or drawing on a door or bulletin board
- Text someone in your building and say, “Happy Neighbor Day”
Together, but Low-Key
- Share coffee or snacks in a lobby, courtyard, or common area
- Organize a game night, bingo night, or movie night
- Bring chairs outside and hang out for an hour
- Host a potluck, cookout, breakfast, or dessert swap
Joyful and Creative
- Sidewalk chalk or art day
- Karaoke or dance party
- Kids’ craft table or coloring station
- Neighborhood trivia night
Care and Community
- Help a neighbor with errands
- Organize a small clean-up, then celebrate together
- Start or support a Little Free Pantry or Library
- Share extra food, books, or supplies
Big or small. Planned or spontaneous. It all helps build connection.
Want to Plan Something Bigger? We Can Help
Feeling inspired to host a May 2 Neighbor Day event? You can apply for a Small Sparks Fund grant of up to $5,000 to help make it happen.
Small Sparks grants are perfect for:
- Potlucks, block parties, breakfasts
- Bingo nights and game nights
- Dance parties or movie nights
- Cultural celebrations
- Art projects and pop-up events
- Neighborhood cleanups
Apply by March 13, 2026, to get funding in time for a Neighbor Day event.
Learn more and apply through the Neighborhood Matching Fund.
Why Neighbor Day Matters. Especially Now.
Life is busy. News can be heavy. It’s easy to feel disconnected. Neighbor Day reminds us that community doesn’t start somewhere far away. It starts right where you live.
A conversation. A shared moment. A small act of care.
Those things add up.
This year, as we celebrate 35 years of the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods, we’re honoring the simple truth that has always guided this work: when neighbors connect, neighborhoods are stronger.
Join us
However you show up, loudly or quietly, with a large group or one on one, you’re part of this. Happy Neighbor Day, Seattle!