OVER 50 STREET FEASTS PLANNED
THE whole of County Wicklow has adopted the idea of the ‘Street Feast’, with over 50 already planned for Sunday, June 11.
Sam Bishop from Newtownmountkennedy was one of the founders of ‘Street Feast’ and the eighth annual event already has 1,000 communities around the country signed up to share a meal and lots of fun with their neighbours.
Of the 53 events registered celebrations in Co Wicklow are feasts in Bray, Wicklow, Greystones, Newtownmountkennedy, Arklow, Baltinglass and Shillelagh, which are supported by Wicklow County Council.
Street Feast is an all-for-fun, do-it-yourself, not-for-profit celebration that invites individuals, groups or clubs to host a lunch with their neighbours on their street, in a local park or in their front gardens – inviting other neighbours to come along and join them. The aim is to encourage active participation, bring communities together and reduce isolation. Everyone is encouraged to bring something along to share, whether it be a dish, a chair or a tune.
In recognition of its aim of bringing people together, Street Feast was last week awarded the County Wicklow Community Pride award for 2017.
Sam Bishop said the organisers are very excited for Street Feast 2017, which is scheduled to take place at noon on Sunday, June 11.
‘We want it to help rejuvenate communities, introduce new faces, bridge the gap between generations, share culture, stories and skills, and make our streets safer places to be.
‘ The registrations are coming in fast and the feedback has been exceptional, with some theming their celebrations or running them to coincide with other community projects,’ said Mr Bishop. ‘We encourage as many individuals, friends, neighbours, clubs, community groups, faith groups, resident associations, etc. to get involved in this special all-inclusive community initiative. It can be as simple as laying out a few picnic blankets in your nearest green area! Go for it!’
Barbara Schmidt, one of the hosts of a Wicklow Street Feast, said that it was so much fun last year, they’re doing it again.
‘Last year, Street Feast allowed us to reconnect – young and old. The oldest party girl was 92; Kitty Noble! The youngest was three-and-ahalf. We have Italians, Irish, Venezuelans, Polish. There are loads of different foods because of the different nationalities,’ she said.
Hannah Quinn, another 2016 host, agreed, saying: ‘It was a lot of fun last year. Lots of good vibes. We’re really looking forward to this year. I’ve ordered in nice weather as the wind messes everyone’s hair up!’
Everyone who registers to host a Street Feast can receive a free party pack which includes balloons, bunting, invites, posters and a DIY guide. However, registration for these free party pack ends tomorrow, Thursday, June 1.
Registration for Street Feasts continues until Friday, June 9.