I bought my house 1.5 years ago and last year hosted the 1st "annual" neighborhood block party. I had it outside in my backyard with a hot chocolate bar (with alcohol to mix in for the adults), hot cider, and people brought cookies. The intent was to eat some cookies and also do an exchange and bring some home. We had several fire pits in the backyard and the kids played on the play set. We had a few little apps I think but not a lot. Everyone seemed to have a really good time and were really thankful to get to know the neighbors more

We've made several new friends due to having this party AND learned a neighbor's parent's dog had puppies.....we have a dog now lol.
This year I'd still like to have some cookies and a hot chocolate bar because that was widely popular with all but I'd like to have a potluck dinner too and set up my basement for the kids to watch a G-rated holiday movie when it gets dark so adults who still want to hang can sit around the fire. I will probably hire the teen girls next door to supervise the littles in the basement.
Potluck:
Should I do crockpot chili?? Something else? I don't want to make anything too expensive because it needs to be enough to serve around probably 50+ people. Would you divide up what to bring by last name?
I'm making invites soonish.
Thanks!