St. John’s Lutheran Church will hold its annual block party from 6-9 p.m. Friday.
The church does not charge for any activities during the event, which is open to all community members. St. John’s is at 3517 Jeffco Blvd. in Arnold.
“This event began in 2010,” said Andy Becker, family life pastor. “St. John’s wanted to give a gift to our community. We have not charged for anything throughout our 14-year history. The church budget and donations from members covers the cost for everything.”
The evening will feature carnival-style games for kids, three bounce houses for different age groups, pony rides, and free food and beverages.
“There are fun games for kids, who will win candy and prizes,” Becker said. “We will serve things like hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, soda and water.”
Lutheran High School South jazz band, Mark Applebaum and a praise band from St. John’s will perform throughout the evening.
“The musical acts add to the fun atmosphere by providing live music everyone can enjoy while participating in other things at the block party,” Becker said.
The block party ends with a seven-to-10-minute fireworks display. Church member Ron Carr operates the display, Becker said.
“There is a great excitement from the crowd during the display,” Becker said. “There is a lot of applause at the end of the finale. It is cool to have that fireworks display right in the heart of Arnold.”
Becker said the block party is a great way for the church to spend time with community members.
“It is a great chance to serve and have fun together,” he said. “Every year I get comments from people about being able to be somewhere where they are not being nickeled and dimed for everything that is going on, and that it is a fun, safe place for family. That is great because it is fulfilling the mission we started out with.”