Over the last few years our neighborhood block party’s famous East Side vs. West Side softball rivalry has been dwindling in terms of player sign up. While block parties continue to be well attended by neighbors of all ages, the pull has probably become more about activities like custom t-shirt printing and visits from the Border Grill taco truck! Last year the CHA began to explore new party ideas, including a movie night in the park and reviving the old cookie decorating party.
When one door closes, another one opens.
Inspiration finally struck during a chance conversation with Tumbleweed Day Camp Director, Andy Kimmelman. Andy and his team generously offered to host our neighborhood for our very own return-to-our-roots, back-to-camp day. The Association loved the idea—and began planning what would become “Camp Crestwood Hills.” We hope Crestwood Hills residents will be as excited as the CHA Board is about the thought of spending an afternoon together enjoying camp-style activities while eating camp-style eats—all in a truly beautiful outdoor setting.
Tumbleweed and Crestwood Hills have always had a special relationship.
Tumbleweed Day Camp was founded by Patti and Gene Tucker in 1954, a few years after Crestwood Hills. It was intended to be a place where children could play and grow within the confines of a magical canyon hideaway. Longtime residents are quick to recount their special memories of the camp and its grounds, particularly the joy of hiking in its pristine canyon and swimming in the Tumbleweed pool. Andy and his wife Liz are the current stewards of Tumbleweed—with over 30 years of dedication to the camp between them. They are proud to be continuing the traditions started by Patti and Gene—while adding some pretty great new traditions of their own. The camp operates all year round and includes program offerings for ‘campers’ of all ages.
The fun is in the details!
The 2019 Camp Crestwood Hills block party will take place Sunday, October 20th from 2-5pm in the upper camp—known as North Tumbleweed. Tumbleweed Day Camp is located at 1024 Hanley Avenue next to Crestwood Hills Park. On-site parking is available. Whether you just want to come out to visit with neighbors or you can’t wait to adventure in Tumbleweed’s beautiful setting, there will be something for everyone. Activities will include archery, rock wall climbing, an inflatable obstacle course, socializing, exploring, the petting zoo and arts and crafts.
Pizza and drinks (including adult beverages) will be served—plus we’re also excited to welcome back the famous Coolhaus ice cream truck for a return visit. They’ll be serving up super yummy treats, including perfect camp flavors like vanilla, sea salt caramel, dairy free chocolate, coffee and seasonal sorbet—served on ‘s’mores’, gluten free coconut almond chip, vegan double chocolate and snickerdoodle cookies!
Download a party map here.
We hope you will come out to enjoy the fun! The event is free for all Crestwood Hills Association dues-paying residents. Please RSVP with the total number attending and your home address to rsvp@crestwoodhills.com.
And don’t forget to get your temporary tattoo!