Festivals were originally public celebrations for the whole community. They often centred on cultural, religious, recreational, musical, entertainment, arts, spectacle and sporting purposes. They were designed colourfully to create a lasting image of fun.

Events are usually smaller in size. They tend to have a specific purpose, such as a business field or a special interest, like food, antiques, kites or sheepdog trials. Events need not be as elaborate as festivals, but they still aim to bring a group of people together for a specific purpose.

Local Welsh produce, food and crafts will involve the local community and create a sense of place. More details about creating a sense of place can be found at www.wtbonline.gov.uk under the 'Developing Your Business' section under 'Toolkits'.

Think carefully about your chosen theme to attract your target audience.

You can reflect your theme through:

• chosen decor
• colour design
• logo
• decoration of room/stage/arena
• food
• uniforms
• table décor
• table napkins
• entertainer and artists' costumes
• banners
• lighting effects
• music
• merchandise

Make sure that all materials you use are fireproof, water and weather resistant and that they meet Health and Safety standards. The funds you have available will dictate how much you can spend on décor.

You can get further professional advice from:

• your local council
• the Health and Safety Executive
• your Regional Tourism Partnership
• the TIMELINE Chart

Key Points:

• Themes are about building safe, secure and enjoyable atmospheres
• Your budget will dictate how much you can spend on themes/decor
• Make sure all decoration materials are fireproof, waterproof and wind resistant
• Focus on safety and comply with HSE Safety standards
• Designing events is challenging but fun!

See Also:

1.1 Idea/concept
1.7 Find Venue Location
1.9 Establish Permissions needed
1.10 Check Legal Obligations
2.4 Draft Budget
3.7 Develop Operational Plan
Section 7 Case studies
Section 7 Regional Contacts