Bunting, party kit and more

Bunting is such a traditional part of a street party, it’s practically compulsory!

A burst of colourful flags will transform your street and the more the better. See our Street Party Guide for Residents for advice on how to organise a party.

To buy bunting

To buy a wide range of different styles of bunting try this reliable company:

Bristol residents can borrow bunting, road signs & play kits from their local community centres.

‘Road Closed’ signs

These can be bought as roll up banners – the larger size 1000mm x 750mm is the normal size, but the smaller ones might be OK – click on advert below.

Or hire proper metal ones locally, or your council may provide them. Read our section about road closures for more details.

Think about shelters for rain, wind or sun with a pop-up gazeebo or marquee.

Activities could include games, fancy dress costumes, face-painting or a general party theme.

Food is also great to share.

History of bunting

The use of bunting developed from street dressing which is the origin of street parties. Street dressing at some unknown early time came to be dominated by what we now call bunting. This is usually made of strings of triangular ‘pennants‘ which were probably originally based on naval signal flags, as below. See more detail here.

Make bunting with neighbours

Be creative with bringing a triangle of material, card or paper to staple to strong string. Or cut out triangles, strips or shapes from fabric or plastic. Then sew, tie, staple, or glue the shapes onto tape or thin rope. Experiment by adding pictures or words, paint, sequins, buttons etc.