The queen’s platinum jubilee will soon be upon us with many people looking to hold street parties to celebrate what is a momentous event. Street Parties have been a British tradition for many years dating back to both world wars and beyond. Street parties are unique in the fact that they allow communities to come together for the day and enjoy a range of activities for children and adults alike. Anyone organising a street party these days probably has a lot more to think about than their counterparts from years ago. For example, traffic flow and regulations around health and safety are much different than even at the silver jubilee parties in 1977. So, in this short blog, we thought we would have a look at some of the essential components of a successful street party.
Planning
This is probably right at the top of the list when it comes to organising a street party. From choosing a date, to arranging mobile bar hire and ensuring there is enough to eat and drink, it is advisable to start early and give yourself at least 2-3 months to ensure you have everything in place. You will probably have to contact your local authority to let them know about your party so they can put a temporary traffic regulation in place for the road closure, this can take around 6 weeks. So our advice is to give yourself plenty of time, and wherever possible co-opt as many friends and neighbours as you can to help, as trying to organise a street party on your own could prove stressful and take away from your enjoyment of the day.
Lots and Lots of Bunting
You are celebrating a historic event so what better time to be patriotic. What better way to demonstrate your patriotism than by hanging out lots and lots of union jacks, banners, and decorations. Turning your street red, white and blue will undoubtedly set the right tone for your event and help get everyone in the party spirit.
Food
There are several options when it comes to supplying food for your street party. Probably the easiest one would be to charge a small entry fee and hire professional caterers. Alternatively, you could arrange for mobile food outlets to visit your party and provide you with a range of options for attendees. However, in the old days’ tradition dictated that everyone brought a contribution. Getting everyone involved in contributing is not only a good cost-saving exercise but also a great way for people to take ownership of the event.
Alcohol and Soft Drinks
Now while nipping down to the supermarket and buying an assortment of beer and ciders, bottles or boxes of wine, spirits and a trolley load of soft drinks might seem the obvious choice, there are other options available. When you buy your drinks it is very difficult to predict exactly how much you will need and the last thing you want to do is start to run out just when the party is getting going. One way to ensure this doesn’t happen and to give your event a special touch is by splashing out on cocktail bar hire in Manchester or wherever your party is being held. With a mobile bar, you will get fully trained bartenders to dispense your drinks, and you will be able to choose from our wide menu of drinks for your party ensuring there is something for everyone. A mobile bar can also be themed so that it fits perfectly into your event.
There are lots of other things you can do to enhance the party experience for your guests but the four we have listed above will certainly go a long way to ensuring your party is the success you want it to be.