As August rolls in, activity coordinators across the UK are gearing up for one of the busiest and most exciting months of the year.
From sunny days perfect for outdoor events to unpredictable weather that can throw a spanner in the works, (and there's been plenty of that this year) there’s a lot to prepare for.
As we all know, despite being summer, the UK weather can be quite erratic, even in August. Sudden showers or unexpected heatwaves can impact your outdoor events.
That's why it is so important to always have a backup plan.
Ensure you have access to indoor venues or canopies to protect against the rain, and provide shade for sunny days.
And be prepared with a stock of sunblock and plenty of hydration options for hot days.
With schools closed, many families will be looking for activities to keep children entertained. Make the most of this opportunity to engage in intergenerational activities by planning family-friendly events, offer some child friendly activity sessions, and consider hosting events at times convenient for families.
You will be competing with so many other events happening in your community and further afield during August, which means that potential attendees might feel overwhelmed and be less inclined to attend your event. Make sure your events stand out by offering unique experiences. Focus on quality over quantity and ensure your marketing highlights what makes your event special.
Summer holidays usually mean that some of your regular staff and volunteers are away on vacation or simply having time off with family. Plan your staffing well in advance. Consider recruiting temporary volunteers or part-time help and ensure everyone is well-briefed on their roles.
And, of course, make sure that your intergenerational events are attractive to those spending time at home with their children. Make your events attractive to them so that they can come along and relax with you.
Please don't be tempted to rope them into volunteering when they are with you.
You want them to go away saying how much they enjoyed the event with their family, and come back next time with their friends.
Rope them in when they are there and you run the risk of them leaving disgruntled and never wanting to support you again.
With increased activity and perhaps limited funding, staying within budget is crucial. Plan meticulously and prioritise essential costs.
Seek sponsorships, partnerships, and community support to stretch your budget further. Look for low-cost or free resources to enhance your events. You may be able to offset some of the costs by charging for the event or charging for refreshments and certain activities.
August is the heart of festival season in the UK. From music festivals to food fairs, there’s an event for every taste. Collaborate with local festivals or create your own mini-festival.
Offer special activities that tie into the larger events happening in your area.
Longer days and warmer weather make August perfect for outdoor activities. Organise picnics, sports events, garden parties, and nature walks.
Outdoor cinema nights and open-air theatre can also be great crowd-pullers.
With more people out and about, August is an excellent time to engage with your community. Host community fairs, BBQs, and street parties. Encourage local talent to participate and make your events interactive to foster community spirit.
August sees a spike in tourism, with people exploring different parts of the UK. Make the most of this, by offering unique experiences that highlight local culture and attractions. Promote your activities to tourists. Collaborate with your local tourism board to feature your event(s) in their guides.
Summer themes and activities can be super fun and vibrant. Incorporate traditional summer themes into your events. Think beach parties, tropical nights, and summer sports. Use seasonal decorations and food to enhance the atmosphere.
August is a month full of potential for activity coordinators in the UK. By preparing for the challenges and embracing the opportunities, you can create memorable experiences as part of your community.
Stay flexible, get creative, and most importantly, have fun planning and executing your activities.
Here's to a fantastic August!
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