Ju-Ju’s Black Party returns for its annual run to provide free family fun to the community.
The annual block party at Penn Park on Madison’s South Side is now in its fifth year, as its founder, Julian Walters, looks to provide an avenue to enrich and give back to the community. It takes inspiration from memories from Walters’ childhood with the now-gone Johnny Winston Jr. Streetball and Block Parties he would attend at Penn Park.
“I think the last one was in 2009, and for about 12 years, there was no movement or energy at Penn Park regarding block parties,” Walters remembered. “I wanted to bring something back that the community was proud of, something of a community staple.”
Walters wanted to intertwine the impact on his childhood and the current network of resources he currently has to make an impact on future generations.
Throughout its time, Ju-Ju’s Block Party has been centered on resources for youth. Each year, Walters tries to increase what it can offer while building on the staples the block party is known for. Previous years have seen backpack giveaways for kids, a partnership with Wisconsin native and Atlanta Hawks star Jalen Johnson and his foundation, gift cards and scholarships.
(Photo by Hedi Rudd)
“We want the community to know that we see them. We want them to know that we are part of the community,” Walters said. “There’s a lot of history with my family and events like the block party and other events that have happened throughout the years in Madison that gave us the opportunity to go out in the community and enjoy ourselves.”
Walters has a new component to Ju Ju’s Block Party this year, but he is keeping it a closely guarded secret. He encourages the community to show up to find out what the surprise is.
This year will see the coveted streetball tournament continue, where players and teams from around the area will play on Penn Park’s courts. With new basketball courts, Walters hopes that it will give a more competitive, electric feel … like an NBA championship game.
“When the lights come on, it gives you kind of like that New York City Rucker Park feeling. It’s something that’s not usually seen in Madison or this area,” Walters said.
Registration for the basketball tournament is open until July 31. A link for sign-ups can be found on the Ju-Ju’s Block Party Facebook page.
Ju-Ju’s Block Party will be held Saturday, Aug. 16. Penn Park is located on 2101 Fisher St.
