Nice to street you!

In a world where we are more connected than ever, many of us still don’t know the people living next door, but a food-based community festival aims to change that.

Promoting social inclusion, integration, and a sense of belonging in neighbourhoods, community party day, Street Feast, is returning to Cork this spring for its 15th outing.

Taking place on 24 and 25 May, Street Feast invites neighbours across the country to come together for a shared meal, a chat, and a chance to turn strangers into friends.

After last year’s outing, organisers say 96% of participants felt their sense of belonging had increased since taking part.

Street Feast launched in 2010 and has grown steadily, with nearly 75,500 people taking part in celebrations nationwide last year.

Anyone who would like to get involved can register to host their own Street Feast events by visiting streetfeast.ie. After registering, participants will receive a free party pack complete with bunting, stickers, invites, posters, and a DIY guide. Hosts are then advised to pick a date and time, choose a location that's easy to access, and recruit some friendly neighbours to help plan the big day.

Street Feast co-founder and Neighbourhood Network CEO, Sam Bishop, said: “Every year, thousands of neighbours pass each other by without ever saying hello. We want to empower people to change that. By hosting a Street Feast, you can help make your neighbourhood a happier, healthier, and more connected place.”

Over the past 15 years, Street Feast has facilitated 750,000 community connections across every county on the island of Ireland with a mission of reaching 1 million by 2030.

Mr Bishop continued: “By taking part, you join thousands of people across Ireland in celebrating community spirit and making your neighbourhood a better place. Registration is now open at streetfeast.ie. We’re ready to help you bring your event to life.”

Street Patron and President of Ireland Michael D Higgins said: “We must all by now realise the importance of community, inclusion, creativity, and togetherness – all values that require support and a conscious effort of care, protection, and solidarity. Initiatives such as Street Feast provide exactly that type of opportunity.”

Street Feast is a project of Neighbourhood Network, an all-island charity which seeks to promote social inclusion, tackle loneliness, and build supportive and resilient neighbourhoods.

The event aligns itself with national and local government policy on social cohesion, community development, and promoting well-being.

Whether it’s a simple cuppa in the garden, a picnic in the park, or a big street party, all are invited to visit streetfeast.ie and get involved.