Temporary events, from pop-up shows to street festivals, fairs, competitions and parades, can always be found in communities small and large across the UK. Throughout history, temporary and one-off events have continued to be highly popular, but what makes them so important for the local area?
The key benefit of the temporary event is its ability to collate and showcase our diverse talents and skills, and bring together people of all ages, ethnicities, backgrounds and beliefs. Temporary events provide the perfect basis to encourage a sense of community in the local area and allow others to discover the area’s unique culture and appeal.
Celebrating community – Pop Fields Brixton
The Media Structures team recently constructed the event structures for Pop Fields, a temporary event running throughout the summer. The site offers Brixton residents and visitors a temporary hub to celebrate sporting activities and entertainment, from the Rio Olympics and European Football Championships, to a space that can be used by local schools, sporting academies and community groups.
The free event has been set up to help support and promote health and fitness activity for members of the community. It was great to be involved in setting up this hub for community engagement, and we hope to help other communities create compelling temporary event spaces to host their valuable initiatives!
Planning for a temporary event
Before reaching the exciting stages of the event’s action, there are many steps to take to ensure it runs safely and smoothly, especially if being held in a public space. Here are some of the key steps event organisers will need to consider when planning a temporary event:
• Once you have defined your target audience and outlined the event you’ll be able to choose the most suited dates, times and venue
• Set out the roles and responsibilities for your events team with achievable deadlines.
• Then you’ll need to secure all permits and licenses, which will vary depending on who owns the land the event will take place on and whether you’ll have food and alcohol on site
• If your event space is privately owned check the owner’s requirements, such as the rent, hours of operation, whether they provide maintenance staff, parking and equipment usage etc.
• Secure adequate insurance
• Determine the best layout and design for the event and what temporary structures and infrastructure you’ll need
• Complete a risk assessment and secure risk assessments from all of your suppliers
• Get stewarding and security provision if needed and set up communication
• Sort out first aid provision, fire safety management and an evacuation procedure
From the initial event design concepts to installing innovative and bespoke event structures and infrastructure, we can help you stage a successful temporary event, whatever the venue and event type. For any more advice on creating your temporary event or to speak to us about our services, please call Media Structures on 020 8683 3131 or email [email protected].