Ghost of Midnight

Sept. 28 is National Neighbor Day. Why not celebrate all year long?

Help us to build a list of great ideas, big and small, of how to be a good neighbor. Comment below with your suggestions, and we’ll add them here.

If you’re feeling social and looking for ways to organize gatherings, here are some group activities we’ve noted for inspiration:

“All ages are welcome to this evening of board games, card games, and more! Bring the family and your favorite game(s) to a low-key and fun night of playing games with neighbors, friends, and community.”
• Linda, Brookfield Forum

“All-Neighborhood Potluck Picnic, Costumes welcome! Sunday afternoon – Mulu’s food tent. Popular with all ages! Potluck table for salads and desserts to share. Halloween theme encouraged.”
• Tom, South Burlington FPF

“I’m hoping to start or join an acoustic guitar song-sharing group. A place to meet once or twice a month and share a song and grow musically together. I can host at my home.”
• Eric, Brattleboro Forum

“Are you passionate about our public parks? Looking for a way to give back to the community? Join Winooski Recreation and Parks for our Volunteer Trail Crew Cleanup Day! Make a difference for our residents and visitors by cleaning up the Casavant Nature Area trail. This is an excellent opportunity to spend time connecting with your neighbors and to contribute to Winooski’s natural beauty.”
• Spencer, Winooski Forum

Maybe you’re interested in a more low-key, one-on-one approach? Here are some ideas that popped up on Front Porch Forum:

“Just wanted to share a little moment of community kindness. My wife and I took our kids to the B&P this evening for an ice cream. Yes it’s been a long week. We ordered our ice creams with Lauren who then told us they were paid for by a donation made earlier on in the day.”
• Dominic, Reading Forum

“Someone has been spreading cheer up on Fuller Mountain Road. Both we and my son and daughter-in-law found small bouquets in miniature buckets in our mailboxes. It brought color and cheer into our homes. Thank you flower fairy. It was very sweet and thoughtful.”
• Mickey, Ferrisburgh Forum

“What a nice surprise – came home from work the other evening to find a dozen fresh eggs from a neighbor…“
• Dorothy, North Hero Forum

“Sincere, thanks to the mystery person who weeded my little garden in our front yard. I can’t thank you enough. It was your joy to come home and find that the garden that has haunted me was cleared.”
• Libby, Vergennes Forum

Keep the ideas coming! Post on your Forum or comment below. We’ll add your additional National Neighbor Day submissions here: