💡 For a full list of 50 event ideas designed to generate extra income, download our free guide below.

Why Community Events Work

Minimal Set-Up Required

Libraries, community halls, arts centres, and leisure sites already have the facilities needed to host events. With a small amount of equipment or local partnerships, councils can run workshops and activities that consistently attract attendees throughout the year.

Appeal to a Wide Range of Audiences

Residents increasingly value experiences that are social, accessible, and affordable. Community events covering seasonal and festive activities, food and drink experiences, family-friendly workshops, arts and culture, wellbeing, and learning sessions attract broad audiences and encourage repeat visits.

Efficient Venue Management with Switch

Running multiple events can be challenging, especially when budgets and staff resources are stretched. Our Switch Venue Management and Booking Platform helps councils manage everything efficiently while maximising revenue. Switch provides:

Live Room and Resource Management – see availability and schedule rooms and equipment in real time

Online Event Registration – allow attendees to book and pay online

Online Customer Booking Journey – quick booking and payment for both event spaces and tickets

Automated Email Functionality – schedule all pre-event communications

Online Payment Management – manage ticket sales securely and efficiently

Up-to-Date Event Register – keep accurate records to share with event leaders

Instant CRM Updates – all bookings and history are logged for sales and marketing opportunities

By using Switch, councils can focus on delivering high-quality, engaging events while the platform handles bookings, capacity, payments, communications, and reporting — helping venues generate extra income and improve the resident experience.

Cross-Promotion Opportunities

Every event brings new visitors into a venue, creating opportunities to promote private venue hire, catering services, regular community programmes, and future seasonal events. A positive experience often encourages attendees to return for other bookings.

Learn from Other Councils’ Success

Some of our Switch customers are already leading the way, using creative community events to generate additional income while strengthening local engagement. Their success shows what’s possible when venues think differently and make the most of their spaces.

Wokingham Borough Council’s Dinton Activity Centre has introduced a wide range of events throughout the year, all of which have been extremely well received by the community. From summer BBQs on the terrace and paint-and-sip evenings to comedy nights and a full calendar of festive activities, they’ve transformed their centre into a true year-round destination. This Christmas, their programme includes meet-and-greet sessions with Santa, festive afternoon teas, and children’s crafting workshops.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Chester Town Hall continues to thrive as a vibrant community venue. Their events calendar features everything from lively Bango Bingo nights to “TV in the Court” screenings, along with a series of popular Santa’s Grotto days that draw families from across the area.

Rushcliffe Borough Council also showcases what’s possible with a seasonal approach to community events. Their annual Lark in the Park is a staple of the summer calendar, while their Christmas Market attracts visitors, supports local traders, and brings festive cheer to the borough.

Inspire Libraries remain committed to supporting their communities by hosting a diverse range of events across their social calendar — from learning activities and cultural sessions to wellbeing workshops that bring residents together in meaningful ways.

These councils demonstrate that with creativity, planning, and the right tools, community events not only boost engagement but provide a real and sustainable revenue opportunity for local venues.

Final Thoughts: Small Changes with Big Impact

Community events do more than generate income — they enrich local culture, support small businesses, and strengthen community pride. With thoughtful planning, a platform like Switch, and creative ideas from our 50 Event Ideas to Generate Extra Income guide, council venues can turnseasonal workshops and community-led activities into sustainable revenue streams.

Next Step: Download our 50 Event Ideas to Generate Extra Income guide below to discover new ways to bring your community together and maximise revenue from your venues.