Why the Deer Run Block Party Matters

I want to take a minute to tell y'all why I'm so compelled to organize the Deer Run Block Party.

It might seem obvious that at the heart of the Deer Run Block Party is a simple truth: I’m part of a musical family that loves to celebrate creativity. If you know me, you know I've spent my life intentionally bringing together artists of all kinds--hosting house concerts, and storytelling events, and art classes, and creativity retreats, and any other creative project I can be a part of. I believe in supporting and promoting local musicians, introducing people to great food, and curating a space where artists, makers, educators, growers, and bakers of all kinds can safely and proudly share the things they’re most passionate about.

This is the fourth event we’ve hosted at Deer Run Park, and with each one, the vision has grown clearer: to create a true community festival that celebrates the beauty and diversity of each individual person who lives in our community. I really hope this is just the beginning and that this event grows and grows.

Deer Run Park, to me, is a special place, and the Timothy Baker Amphitheater is a quiet hero that deserves to be more widely shared. Built as an award-winning Eagle Scout project by West Holmes student Brenna Barbey, it stands as a testament to what vision, determination, and community support can create. Brenna’s work has been recognized locally and nationally, and she made history as the first female Eagle Scout in Holmes County. Her project has been honored as one of the top Eagle Scout projects in the country, and her amphitheater continues to be a gift to the community.

But I think--no, I know--that the biggest reason I’ve felt deeply compelled to create the Deer Run Block Party is this: I believe our world needs it. I need it. In a time often marked by so much division, fear, and anger, I want to offer something different, an opportunity to celebrate the human ability to create, to share, to love one another, to make music, to tell stories, to talk about the things we are passionate about, to play, and to gather together in peace.

For me, the Deer Run Block Party isn’t just about a day of food and entertainment. For me, it’s about making meaningful connections with other humans, and that’s something we can all benefit from.

Deer Run Block Party Organizer, Denice Hazlett