It's coming back.

The first Block Party hit 16th Street in 2007. A group of Atlas Church volunteers wanted to give UNC students a proper welcome back and connect them with the shops, neighbors, and music scene of downtown Greeley. Year one drew about 3,500 people to 35 bands across four stages on 16th St.

In 2013, the year the Moxi Theater opened downtown, the party moved from 16th Street to 9th Street Plaza. From 2013 through 2025, generous resources from the DDA and Friday Fest made it possible. BandWagon Magazine and the Moxi Theater have produced it throughout. It's anchored the plaza every September since. Even 2020 got an edition, virtual instead of on the street. The mission never changed.

Nearly two decades in, the Block Party runs six stages across seven downtown venues, hosts 25+ acts, and pulls in the UNC Marching Band. Free, all ages, and the Bears' unofficial homecoming.

In 2026, the Friday Fest season is shorter. Producing the Block Party this year will require additional funding and community support. That's where sponsors come in.