Street parties

Organising a street party

Street parties are a great opportunity for communities to come together on national occasions. They are usually organised by groups of residents who get together and make arrangements to celebrate with their neighbours.

The main differences between a small street party and other public events are listed below.

Street parties Other public events
  • for residents and neighbours only
  • publicity only to residents
  • in a quiet residential road or street
  • self-organised
  • no formal risk assessment needed
  • no licences normally necessary unless the sale of alcohol is involved
  • anyone can attend
  • external publicity, such as in newspapers
  • in buildings, parks and open spaces
  • professional skilled organisers
  • risk assessment common
  • licence usually needed

How to organise a street party

Organising a street party just for residents and neighbours is very simple and doesn't need a licence.

Go to The Streets Party Site, Eden Project: The Big Lunch and GOV.UK: your guide to organising a street party for helpful tips, advice and support on organising a successful event.

You should also read our advice on keeping it simple. This covers road closures, insurance, risk assessments and types of licence you may need for some activities.

We advise that you plan early and share jobs amongst residents.

If you plan to include amplified music as part of your celebrations, you should tell local residents in advance. This could include start and finish times, but it's important you stick to them. You should also provide residents in the local area with contact details for the event organiser, so they can get in touch if they have any concerns on the day.

When you have completed your plans, you should send us the details using the online form below.

You should send us details of your street party at least 8 weeks in advance if it requires a road closure, or at least 4 weeks in advance if it does not require a road closure.

Apply for a street party, parade or other highway event