Ultimate Guide to throwing a British Street Party 2023

History of the British Street Party

British Street Party Food & Wine Options

Finger Sandwiches

Sausage Rolls

Pork Pie

Quiche

Cheese and Crackers

Scones

Victoria Sponge Cake

Trifle

Eton Mess

Non-alcoholic drinks for a Street Party

British Street Party Entertainment and Activities

Games

Games are a vital ingredient in crafting a spirited and memorable street party, as they spark friendly competition and encourage interaction among guests of all ages. For a touch of nostalgia, include traditional British games such as sack races, egg-and-spoon races, and tug-of-war, which are sure to evoke a sense of community and camaraderie. To cater to diverse interests, set up lawn games like croquet, boules, or giant Jenga, allowing guests to engage at their own pace and enjoy some lighthearted fun. For the younger attendees, consider organising age-appropriate games, such as a treasure hunt or a bean bag toss, to keep them entertained and involved. By offering a variety of games, your street party will come to life with laughter and excitement, creating lasting memories for everyone involved.

Activities

In addition to games, incorporating a range of other activities into your street party can enrich the overall experience and cater to the diverse interests of your guests. For a creative touch, set up a children’s craft corner where little ones can unleash their artistic talents through activities such as face painting, balloon modelling, or DIY decoration-making. For a more relaxing option, consider designating a quiet area where guests can engage in conversations or play board games. By thoughtfully curating a selection of activities, your street party will offer an engaging and enjoyable experience for every guest in attendance.

Music

Music is a key ingredient for any lively street party, setting the mood and uniting guests through a shared love of melody and rhythm. For a truly memorable and engaging experience, why not host a Ceilidh? This traditional Scottish or Irish social gathering, complete with folk music and lively group dancing, is an excellent way to get everyone involved and create a uniquely fun and energetic atmosphere.

When curating your playlist, consider selecting a mix of iconic British songs to delight guests of all ages. Here’s a suggested 10-song Spotify playlist to get you started:

1. The Beatles – “Twist and Shout”
2. Queen – “Don’t Stop Me Now”
3. Spice Girls – “Wannabe”
4. Oasis – “Wonderwall”
5. David Bowie – “Let’s Dance”
6. Elton John – “Tiny Dancer”
7. The Rolling Stones – “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”
8. Amy Winehouse – “Valerie”
9. Ed Sheeran – “Shape of You”
10. Adele – “Rolling in the Deep”

By incorporating a Ceilidh and a well-rounded playlist featuring British classics, your street party will come alive with the joyful sounds of music, encouraging guests to sing, dance, and make lasting memories together.

Decorations and Lighting

Decorations for a British street party.

Decorations play a pivotal role in creating a festive and inviting atmosphere for your street party, instantly transforming an ordinary street into a vibrant, celebratory space. Begin by choosing a theme or colour scheme that reflects the spirit of your community, the season, or a specific occasion. Incorporate bunting, streamers, or balloons to add visual interest and a sense of playfulness, draping them between lampposts, trees, or along fences. Table decorations, such as tablecloths, centrepieces, and colourful napkins, can elevate the dining experience and encourage conversation among guests. To further enhance the ambiance, consider using fairy lights or lanterns to create a warm and welcoming glow as the evening progresses. Encourage neighbours to contribute their own decorative elements, fostering a sense of collaboration and shared ownership over the event. By carefully selecting and coordinating decorations for your street party, you can create a visually captivating and immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression on all attendees.

Lighting for a British street party.

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the ambiance and ensuring the safety of your street party, especially as daylight fades and festivities continue into the evening. Start by assessing the existing street lighting and identify any areas that may require additional illumination. To create a warm and inviting atmosphere, consider using strings of fairy lights or festoon lights, which can be hung between trees, lampposts, or along fences. Lanterns and LED candles placed on tables or along walkways can provide a charming glow, while also helping to guide guests through the space. For a more practical approach, consider using portable LED floodlights or battery-operated lamps to brighten up key areas like food stations, seating, or activity zones. Always ensure that any outdoor lighting is weatherproof and safely installed, keeping cables secured and out of the way to prevent accidents. By thoughtfully planning your lighting setup, you can create a magical and enchanting atmosphere that keeps your street party lively and safe well into the night.

Making your street party eco friendly.

Creating an eco-friendly street party is an excellent way to demonstrate your community’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility while enjoying a memorable event. To achieve this, begin by selecting eco-conscious decorations, such as biodegradable balloons, reusable bunting, or natural materials like flowers and foliage, which can later be composted. Opt for digital invitations or use recycled paper for printed materials, and encourage attendees to walk, cycle, or carpool to the event to reduce carbon emissions.

In terms of food and drink, source local and organic ingredients where possible, supporting local businesses and minimising the environmental impact of transportation. Minimise single-use items by encouraging guests to bring their own reusable plates, cups, and cutlery, or provide biodegradable or compostable alternatives. Additionally, consider implementing a water station with reusable cups, reducing the need for single-use plastic bottles. Lastly, engage your neighbours in a conversation about sustainability and share tips on how to maintain eco-friendly practices beyond the street party. By incorporating these environmentally conscious choices, you can create a street party that not only celebrates your community but also respects and preserves the environment.

Other things to consider when organising a street party

How to close the road for a street party?

Considering a road closure for your street party can be beneficial, as it provides ample space for residents to gather and enjoy each other’s company without the usual presence of cars. For a formal road closure, one resident should apply for a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order from the local council’s traffic/highways department, licensing, or events team, with a lead time of 3 to 12 weeks. Keep in mind that councils may vary in their requirements, and you might need to consult with emergency services, suggest alternative traffic routes, and possibly obtain Public Liability Insurance.

If closing the road isn’t feasible or necessary, you can opt for an informal Street Meet that doesn’t involve the council. In this case, you can utilize pavements, cul-de-sacs, parking areas, gardens, or green spaces, with the support of your neighbours. For formal road closures, you will need ‘Road Closed’ signs and possibly additional signs if the road layout is complex. These signs can be obtained from your council, local companies, or even as reusable waterproof banners.

Seating and tables for a street party.

Seating and tables are essential for creating a comfortable and welcoming environment at your street party, allowing guests to relax, dine, and socialise with ease. When planning your seating arrangements, consider using a combination of folding tables and chairs, benches, or even hay bales for a rustic touch. Encourage neighbours to bring their own outdoor furniture to contribute to the communal setup, ensuring there’s ample seating for everyone. Arrange tables in a long, communal style to foster a sense of unity and togetherness, and don’t forget to include smaller tables or picnic blankets for young children. For an added touch of charm, dress the tables with tablecloths, centrepieces, or colourful decorations that reflect the theme of the party or showcase the vibrant spirit of your community. By thoughtfully planning your seating and table arrangements, you can create a comfortable and inviting space for guests to enjoy each other’s company and fully immerse themselves in the street party experience.

Power and electricity for street parties.

Power supply is a crucial aspect to consider when planning a street party, as it facilitates various aspects of the event, such as lighting, music, and food preparation. Start by assessing the power requirements for your party, taking into account the needs of any entertainment equipment, catering appliances, or decorative lighting. You may be able to source power from nearby homes by using heavy-duty extension cords with outdoor sockets, ensuring cords are safely secured and covered to prevent accidents. If this option is not viable or additional power is required, consider renting a portable generator to provide a reliable and independent power source. Be mindful of noise levels and exhaust fumes, and place the generator in a well-ventilated area away from guests. It’s essential to consult with a qualified electrician if you’re unsure about any aspect of the power supply or if the setup requires a more complex solution. By ensuring a safe and adequate power supply, you can create a seamlessly enjoyable street party experience for all attendees.

Cleaning up after a street party

Effectively managing waste at your street party is essential to maintaining a clean and pleasant environment for your guests, as well as minimising the environmental impact of the event. Start by setting up designated waste disposal stations throughout the party area, equipped with clearly labelled bins for general waste, recycling, and food waste if composting is available. Encourage attendees to use reusable plates, cutlery, and cups to reduce single-use waste, or opt for eco-friendly, biodegradable alternatives. Engage with your neighbours and assign volunteers to monitor and empty the bins as needed, ensuring they do not become overfilled and unmanageable. After the party, organise a clean-up crew to perform a thorough sweep of the area, collecting any stray litter and leaving the street in pristine condition. By implementing a comprehensive waste management plan, you can ensure that your street party remains clean and enjoyable while demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, planning and hosting a memorable British street party is a fantastic opportunity to bring your community together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and togetherness. By carefully considering each aspect of the event, from food and drink to entertainment, decorations, and sustainability, you can create a truly unforgettable experience for everyone involved. Remember to involve your neighbours in the planning process and encourage their contributions, creating a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere. As you celebrate with friends, family, and neighbours, take a moment to appreciate the power of community spirit and the lasting connections forged through shared experiences like street parties. So, raise your glasses, enjoy the festivities, and here’s to many more unforgettable street parties to come!