Celebrating National Good Neighbor Day on Sept. 28: Noteworthy Community Traditions Since 1979

Since President Jimmy Carter officially proclaimed National Good Neighbor Day in 1979, the holiday has served as a reminder of the importance of community, kindness, and connection. Initially established to encourage Americans to appreciate and recognize the good neighbors in their lives, the celebration has evolved in unique and creative ways across the United States. 

Now, there is a coalition of leaders in the neighboring movement, led by Jennifer Prophete, that are working to take National Good Neighbor Day to the next level. As part of that growth, let's consider some of what has been done in the past.

Over the decades, communities have embraced this day with heartfelt, imaginative, and often surprising gestures that highlight the spirit of neighborliness.

One of the most enduring and widespread traditions has been the organization of neighborhood block parties. Cities like Minneapolis, Minnesota, have led the way in transforming National Good Neighbor Day into a large-scale event. In 2004, the city began encouraging residents to host block parties, which often include potlucks, music, games, and introductions between longtime residents and newcomers. These events foster a strong sense of belonging and make the often overlooked effort of simply knowing one’s neighbor both fun and meaningful.

In other communities, the day has taken on a service-oriented focus. For instance, in Tucson, Arizona, neighborhood associations and local governments have collaborated to coordinate volunteer-driven cleanup efforts. Residents come together to repaint playgrounds, pick up litter, plant community gardens, and help elderly neighbors with home repairs. This hands-on approach to neighborliness not only improves the physical environment but also builds interdependence and empathy within the community.

Educational institutions have also played a key role in celebrating National Good Neighbor Day. Schools in states like Georgia and Texas have introduced programs that teach children the value of kindness, cooperation, and respect. These programs often include essay contests, acts-of-kindness challenges, and student-led projects aimed at supporting vulnerable community members. By engaging youth in the celebration, these communities ensure that the spirit of good neighborliness is passed down to future generations.

One particularly creative example comes from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where in 2015, a group of artists and residents launched the “Good Neighbor Gallery Walk.” Local artists displayed their work in neighborhood homes and porches, inviting both locals and strangers to explore the area while enjoying conversations and refreshments. This initiative not only supported the local art scene but also used creativity as a means to break down social barriers.

More recently, the rise of social media has provided new avenues for celebration. Online neighborhood platforms like Nextdoor have promoted virtual good neighbor awards, where residents nominate those who have gone above and beyond to help others. 

National Good Neighbor Day has been honored in numerous meaningful and inventive ways since its proclamation in 1979. From festive gatherings to acts of service and artistic showcases, communities across the United States have found ways to bring people together and strengthen the bonds that define a neighborhood. As society continues to evolve, the enduring celebration of this day reminds us that being a good neighbor is both a personal commitment and a communal gift.

Visit National Good Neighbor Day online and learn how you can celebrate on September 28, and all year long!

If you live in Missouri, you can celebrate neighbors for a whole week with Missouri Good Neighbor Week (Sept. 28 - Oct. 4). Check out the website for details.

BONUS INFORMATION

I first celebrated National Good Neighbor Day on Sept. 28, 2018, in Republic. In 2019, I got sponsors and promoted it across Greene County and I found Jennifer Prophete. We dreamed and brainstormed. She eventually purchased the URL (thank you Tim DeTillis). The effort has grown thanks to Jennifer's efforts but I'm proud to still be a partner and on her team. But today (2025) feels like a watershed moment. We have cities from coast to coast promoting the day and hosting events. And then today, NextDoor announced their support online. It is so good to have partners in this neighboring adventure!

Written by David L. Burton

MORE INFORMATION

Take the Engaged Neighbor pledge and become part of a movement! The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge at https://nomoregoodneighbors.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special invitations to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton via email at dburton541@yahoo.com or burtond@missouri.edu. You can also visit his website at https://engagedneighbor.com.