12 Aug, 2021

"All I want for Christmas" is an incentive scheme

Following the success of last year’s pilot program, the City of Adelaide is once again running its Christmas Incentive Scheme to help fill the city with festive cheer.

The scheme provides direct financial support to businesses and event organisers, as well as musicians and performers to activate places and spaces around Adelaide and create a vibrant city culture throughout the 2021 Christmas festival.

Funding of up to $10,000 is available as a one-off incentive to eligible applicants to deliver a community event or experience.

City of Adelaide Lord Mayor Sandy Verschoor said the scheme would support the city community to create some uplifting Christmas spirit after a testing year.

“We want our streets and laneways filled with music, festivals, events and activity as we help our city get into the Christmas spirit,” said the Lord Mayor.

“We’re encouraging the community to get creative, so whether you’re in a band or a choir, produce small festivals or even run community workshops, we want to help you create a truly special atmosphere in the city.

“Schemes like this are an important way we can support our business and arts communities after what’s been a challenging time for everyone and we look forward to spreading some Christmas cheer in the city this year.”

Deputy Lord Mayor Mary Couros is a passionate supporter of Council’s Christmas efforts and said “Christmas is a special time of year, the Incentive Scheme gives us a wonderful opportunity to not only create a festive atmosphere but also help performers who have been particularly impacted by COVID-19.”

The categories for funding are:

Live music and performances:

• Individual applications up to $1,000 for a single musician/band and up to $3,000 to deliver a series or larger program of performances.

Outdoor community events and small festivals:

• Applications up to $10,000 will be considered to cover costs associated with event delivery (permits, infrastructure, promotions, event management), and artists fees. Community celebrations and public workshops will be considered.

Some highlights of last year’s grant recipients include the Bund der Bayern Bavarian band performing up and down Rundle Mall, along with the Makers and Shakers Christmas Market on O’Connell Street.

The Christmas Incentive Scheme is now open with applications closing 10 September, 2021. To find out more and to apply please go to cityofadelaide.com.au/christmas-incentive-scheme

Jack Berketa