Families Day - planning a successful event

Events can be anything from a community-based day-long festival to a local street party. Families Day is 15 May, with events being held between 12-18 May.

Groups have held successful community events suggest using community resources and centres in your area. They say, don't be afraid to ask the local fun park, museum or farm to host your event.

Families Day is all about families, so it’s a great way to involve people of all ages. Schools, Guides and Scouts, sports clubs, gyms and rest homes might be useful starting points to generate support.

Organising and running an event takes time so spread the work around. Get a team together and share the load. Don't try to do everything yourself.

Tips from organisers of community events

Start early. Book key people and facilities weeks, if not months, in advance.
Encourage your community leaders to take part. Meet with them and other 'movers and shakers' well in advance to ask for their support.
Use the resources, knowledge, experience and talents of the people you know, eg use a creative team member to design posters. Involve a range of agencies and community groups – there’s strength in unity.
Remember the small details such as extension cords and signage. Write lists and assign responsibility.
Know your community and what works well in it.
People are generous. Explain what you're doing and why. Businesses may be able to donate (or discount) products and services.
Never underestimate the power of email. 'Word of mouth' or viral advertising is incredibly effective – you don’t need a large advertising budget. If one person tells 10 people then those 10 people tell another 10, etc etc.
Involve local media. Get them enthused. Keep them in the loop. Their promotion of your event will be invaluable to help you spread your message. We have developed a Press Release guide, which includes an example, which may help.
Keep it simple. Don't try to do everything. Choose one or two key ideas and do them well.
Check council regulations. Do you need a permit or traffic management plan? What safety issues may need looking after?
Consider appointing a project manager. Someone to be responsible and oversee the whole project – to make sure everything happens on time and keeps everyone up-to-date.
Evaluate your event afterwards and celebrate your successes!