There’s nothing quite like the magic of singing Christmas carols outdoors a tradition that brings communities together and fills the winter air with festive cheer. If you’re thinking about organising an outdoor carol event in the West Midlands, a bit of planning goes a long way. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a memorable and stress-free Christmas carol experience.
1. Choose the Perfect Outdoor Venue
First, pick a location that’s accessible and welcoming. Local parks, churchyards, school fields, and village greens are all popular options. Make sure to check with your local council for any permissions or licences required Birmingham City Council and Coventry City Council both have useful event guidelines.
Tip: Consider the ground surface and shelter options in case of rain or frost.
2. Secure Quality Sound Equipment
Outdoor events need reliable PA systems so everyone can hear the music and announcements clearly. At JET Equipment Hire, we offer tailored PA packages ideal for outdoor carol services, including microphones, mixers, and weather-resistant speakers. Free delivery and setup is available across the West Midlands, so you can focus on the festivities.
3. Create a Festive Song List
Pick a mix of classic and modern carols to keep all ages engaged. Need inspiration? Check out our free Spotify playlists designed for professional event sound systems.
4. Think About Lighting and Atmosphere
Good lighting is essential for safety and ambience, especially on dark winter evenings. String lights, lanterns, and battery-powered uplights create a warm, inviting glow. If you need event lighting, JET Equipment Hire can supply and set up a range of options to suit your space.
5. Plan for Comfort and Safety
Encourage guests to dress warmly and bring torches or glow sticks. Provide a few blankets or hot drink stations if possible. For larger events, consider hiring cable covers and safety equipment to keep walkways clear and trip-free.
6. Organise Your Team and Promote the Event
Even small carol events benefit from a few volunteers to help with setup, stewarding, and refreshments. Promote your event on local Facebook groups, parish newsletters, and community noticeboards. You can also list your event for free on Eventbrite to reach a wider audience.
7. Prepare for the British Weather
December weather is unpredictable, so have a plan B. Event shelters or marquees can keep performers and equipment dry. Always check the Met Office forecast and communicate any changes to your attendees in advance.
Ready to plan your Christmas carol event?
Get in touch with JET Equipment Hire for friendly advice and reliable equipment hire across Coventry, Solihull, Birmingham, and the wider West Midlands. We’ll help you make your festive gathering sound as magical as it feels.
