There is a lot to love about where we live, and our local events are, more often than not, at the heart of what makes our communities so unique. Our local farmers, makers, musicians and small businesses transform our towns from places to live to places we love. And our presence at these events counts for more than you might realise.

Here’s how:

1. You’ll contribute to the local economy

Every purchase you make at a farmers’ market, artisan fair, or live concert helps keep money circulating in your local economy. Small businesses, family farms, and independent creators and artists rely on your support to thrive. And when these local operators thrive, it can lead to more employment opportunities for your community.

2. Strengthen community connections
Coming together with neighbours and new faces at events in your local community to celebrate shared passions – music, food or culture – is where meaningful connections are made. These shared experiences can turn acquaintances or familiar faces into new friends, giving you a deeper sense of connection to your community.

3. Celebrate unique cultures
Traditions, local flavours, and unique stories are other important aspects of your community that make it special. By immersing yourself in or participating in local cultural events, you’re supporting and highlighting the heritage and diversity that enrich your community.

4. Support emerging talent
From up-and-coming musicians to seasoned craftspeople, local events give artists and creators a launchpad, a space to connect and network with other talent, and a platform to shine. Your presence at local gigs, craft markets, and art exhibitions is all it takes to help them succeed and encourage emerging talent.

5. Promote sustainability
From seasonal produce to locally made goods, and not a plastic bag in sight, supporting local growers and makers couldn’t be more eco-friendly. Your purchases won’t be racking up the carbon miles, and you’ll be minimising the excessive packaging that often comes with mass-produced goods.

Looking for a local event to get behind this February? Here’s where you can show your support:

• Fresh is best at your local Farmers’ market
  Enjoy the freshest produce and artisan goods while meeting the people who grow and make them – it doesn’t get much closer to the source than that! Look for standout markets like the Capital Region Farmers Market in Canberra, the Eumundi Markets in Queensland or the Bondi Farmers Market in Sydney. Find your local market through the Australian Farmers Markets Association Directory, and don’t forget to bring a basket or reusable bags.

• Pick up unique treasures at artisan fairs and exhibitions
  Skip mass-produced mall finds and discover unique treasures at your local artisan fair. Whether you’re after handcrafted jewellery, original art or one-off décor items, don’t miss Adelaide’s Gathered Design Market or The Makers and Shakers Market, held in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Canberra.
• Groove to homegrown talent at an upcoming music festival
  Get your groove on and support our phenomenal homegrown talent at one of the many local music events and festivals. Between Melbourne’s St Kilda Festival, Laneway Lands in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth, or Tassies Party In The Paddock (for music, art, and even a spot of yoga and meditation), we’re absolutely spoilt for choice!
• Immerse yourself in cultural celebrations
  With January 29th marking the start of the Lunar New Year, Year of the Snake celebrations are a big one on the calendar, running well into February across Australia. Sydney’s CBD comes alive with celebrations that are said to be one of the biggest outside Asia. Melbourne’s’ Chinatown hosts the legendary Dragon Parade, and you’ll find various events dotted across Queensland.

• Indulge in new tastes and tipples at a food or wine festival
  From culinary delights to fine wines, indulge in your region’s very best at your local food or wine festival. Hobart’s Botanical Gardens hosts The Tas Wine Fest, where 35 of the region’s finest drops will be available to sample, or sip, swirl and savour the Yarra Valley’s most exciting producers at PULP: Peoples Wine Show – a celebration of innovation, diversity and the next generation of wine. Your taste buds will thank you, and so will local producers.

Want to make an even bigger impact on events in your community? Take your support to the next level by:

1. Volunteering
Many local events rely on community volunteers to run smoothly; you’re bound to get something out of it, too. It’s a great way to meet people, learn new skills, and contribute to your community.

2. Spreading the word
Marketing is expensive, but word of mouth costs nothing – share details of upcoming events with your friends, family, and online networks. The more people who attend, the bigger the impact!

Love where you live

Local events do more than entertain – they’re a vital part of what makes a connected, unique community. This month, take the opportunity to explore, celebrate, and support the people and traditions that make your neighbourhood special. Whether it’s a bustling market, a soulful music festival, or a colourful cultural celebration, get out there and love where you live!

If you’re struggling to find a community where you can connect and contribute, call your local First National Real Estate office. Our teams are embedded in our local communities, and we’re sure we can help you find your new locale to love, too!

DISCLAIMER
The following advice is of a general nature only and intended as a broad guide. The advice should not be regarded as legal, financial, or real estate advice. You should make your own inquiries and obtain independent professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any legal, financial, or real estate decisions. Click here for full Terms of Use.