Expressions of Interest to hold a major event in the City of Yarra from January 2023 to December 2023 are now open.

To manage the demand for spaces in Yarra, we have a major events Expression of Interest (EOI) process. The EOI process focuses on capturing the following types of events and markets:

• Events requiring closures of major roads
• Long stay or recurring events (markets and circuses)
• Events attracting over 1,000 participants and
• Events incorporating road closures of Yarra Boulevard.

We generally receive EOI’s for large-scale, street-based events such as the Johnston St Fiesta, alongside smaller celebrations on residential streets and park-based events such as fun runs, concerts and circuses.

Despite being a challenging few years in 2020/21, we received more than 50 applications for major events which will take place in 2022 after many postponements. These events include the returning Victoria St Lunar Festival, Reclink Community Cup, St Patricks Family Fun Day, the Sri Chinmoy Half-Marathon, and Trail Run, Victorian Duathlon Series, Abbotsford Farmers Markets and Vollyspot Events.

In 2022 we have also hosted some exciting new festivals and events such as the Pride – A Road to Pride by Midsumma, Reunion Park by Velodrome Events and Sonar Sound Music Events at Fairfield Amphitheatre.

Applicants are required to submit a preliminary proposal that includes a description of the proposed activity and site, frequency and relevant experience.
Council has recently endorsed updates to the Events in Public Spaces Policy. The revised policy maintains its focus on the effective management and balance of events in public spaces and now clearly includes a commitment to action on climate change and a circular economy. We encourage applications for this round to have a real focus on sustainability. Please take a look at our revised Events In Public Spaces Policy.

Preliminary proposals will be assessed by a panel. These applicants who best meet Council’s criteria will be issued an in-principle agreement and will be asked to submit a detailed proposal for consideration.

Submissions are now open and will close at midnight Sunday 31 July 2022.