Play Streets and Street Parties
Other
Create safe, fun, community-focused street gatherings with your neighbours in Merri-bek.
Details
Ongoing activity
Merri-Bek City, VIC, Australia
$
Free
Create safe, fun, community-focused street gatherings with your neighbours in Merri-bek.
Ongoing activity
Merri-Bek City, VIC, Australia
Free
Experience the joy of connecting with your neighbours in a relaxed, car-free environment designed for all ages. Play Streets and Street Parties are small-scale, resident-organised events lasting 2-3 hours, perfect for families looking to build community spirit right on their own street.
These gatherings are intimate and safe, allowing children to play freely while adults socialize, fostering a strong neighbourhood bond. Unlike large public events, these are exclusive to residents and their guests, ensuring a friendly and familiar atmosphere.
Enjoy a unique opportunity to create lasting memories with your family and neighbours in a space free from traffic, where laughter and play take centre stage.
To organise a Play Street or Street Party, start planning at least six weeks in advance. You will need to download and read the Council’s Toolkit, which guides you through every step of the process.
Applications require 75% neighbour support, a street diagram, volunteer traffic marshals, a risk and safety plan, and signed terms and conditions. Once submitted, the Council reviews your application and, if approved, provides permits, traffic management plans, and necessary equipment.
This is a wonderful way for families to engage in community life, encourage outdoor play, and enjoy a safe, vibrant street atmosphere.
These events take place in residential streets within the Merri-bek area. The exact location is determined by the organising residents and must be approved by the Council.
Access is limited to residents and their invited guests to maintain a safe and manageable event size. Streets are temporarily closed to traffic to ensure a secure environment for children and families.
The Council supports organisers with traffic management equipment and training for volunteer marshals to ensure smooth and safe event operations.
Play Streets and Street Parties are not large-scale events and should not exceed 100 attendees. For larger gatherings, an Event Permit is required.
Organisers must comply with Council’s Terms and Conditions and complete all necessary documentation to ensure safety and community harmony.
The Council encourages sharing stories and photos post-event to celebrate community spirit and inspire others.
There is no direct cost to apply for or host a Play Street or Street Party, but applications must be submitted at least six weeks prior to the event date.
Applications can be submitted online or in person at the Coburg Civic Centre, 90 Bell St, Coburg.
For assistance, contact the Social Cohesion Officer or Sustainable Communities Officer by phone or email provided by the Council.