On 19th July The Eden Project in Cornwall is asking the people of Britain to stop what they’re doing and sit down to lunch together. That’s right – the Big Lunch is a party in your street, in everyone’s street.

Why? Well, for lots of reasons really, but mainly to put a smile back on Britain’s face.

Imagine a summer’s day on which millions of us, throughout the UK, sit down to have lunch together, with our neighbours in the middle of our streets, around our tower blocks and on every patch of common ground. The food, entertainment and decorations we will have either grown, cooked, or created ourselves. This will be a day to break bread with our neighbours, to put a smile on Britain’s face.

Click here to find out more. And if you don’t think you and your friends and neighbours can get something together in time (it might be a be late for this year), click here to find out where your nearest Big Lunch is happening.

This is what the Big Lunch says about the idea:

‘Most of us are shy, many of us lead single lives and even when we are together often go our own way. We all know about the problems in our society and don’t need to be preached at about them. But inside almost everyone there is a notion that despite our differences, the ties that bind us are important.

‘The shared enjoyment of eating together, laughter, play, music and conversation bring us together and for all the fact that we are so fabulously different in our outlook and experience on many things, we know a simple truth – together we are strong. Wouldn’t it be great if for just one day we remind ourselves about all that is good about us and bring about a moment that ignites a spark?

’It may be tricky, it may feel slightly uncomfortable to start with. It takes a bit of courage to stop being a stranger. But think of the prize – to be able to walk down the street and into the wider neighbourhood and realise how many good people there are: people who, acting together, can create a real sense of community – a word that in Latin means; “together, in gift”.

‘So… if you’re up for it, try growing something, making something or generally getting stuck in for the Big Lunch. No one is going to tell you how to do it as your ideas will be perfect for you. If you want any prompting we’ve gathered together lots of ideas that might set you on the road for a day that at worst might be fun and at best could start to change your life in unexpected ways!

‘And, if having a Big Lunch just for fun doesn’t feel right for you then find a cause that’s close to your heart and doorstep – be it a hospice, reformed offenders scheme or even a hedgehog sanctuary – then use The Big Lunch as a fund-raiser or volunteer your time.’