Published: 06/10/2026 - 8:00 AM
PHILADELPHIA, PA — June 10, 2026 — The Greater Philadelphia YMCA (the Y) is proud to partner with the City of Philadelphia and Philadelphia250, a program of the Philadelphia Visitor Center, on Block Party Bonanza, a citywide initiative that ensures the celebrations for our nation’s 250th anniversary spill into every neighborhood. Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal, the Block Party Bonanza program is giving away, to 250 approved block parties, free “Life, Liberty and Happiness” Kits with thousands of dollars in free giveaways.
As one of the partners for the Life Kit, which is sponsored by CHOP and includes 50+ items that promote healthy living, literacy and civic engagement, the Y will contribute more than $500,000 in free memberships and enrollment discounts. The Y’s contributions are one of the program’s most valuable and generous donations and seeks to help Philadelphia families stay healthy and connected to their neighbors and communities.
At each of the 250 block party locations, as part of the “Life Kit,” the Y will provide:
- Three 3-month family memberships (a $750 value per location)
- 100 zero-enrollment-fee coupons, waiving the standard $100 enrollment fee
“The Greater Philadelphia Y’s mission is to connect people to healthier lives”, said Shaun Elliott, President & CEO of the Greater Philadelphia YMCA. “Block Party Bonanza does exactly that. Connected neighborhoods are healthier, safer and make our city more vibrant.”
Residents who receive a Y membership through the program will gain access to the full range of programs and services available at their nearest Greater Philadelphia YMCA branch, including fitness facilities, group exercise classes, aquatics, youth sports and enrichment programming, childcare, and more. The Y operates three locations across the city: the Columbia North YMCA, the Christian Street YMCA, and the West Philadelphia YMCA.
Philadelphia residents interested in hosting a block party through the Block Party Bonanza program can learn more about how to apply for a permit, here: phlvisitorcenter.com/block-party-bonanza. Block parties must take place between May 23 and October 3, 2026.