Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Malón Urbano

Chile

Contributed by 
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
June 24, 2019
May 1, 2024

What started as a neighborly potluck has become a national holiday. Malón Urbano shows the power of reclaiming streets for meals and conversation.

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

Food connects people, and so do streets. It makes sense, then, that Chile’s Malón Urbano movement incorporates the two. The concept is a large, inclusive potluck, where neighbors set up tables and chairs in the street to share food and discuss how to improve local conditions. Over the course of the meal, neighbors brainstorm, have informal conversations, play games and create art, all while creatively engaging an underused public space. 


Setting up a Malón Urbano requires closing off a street to cars (i.e. opening it to pedestrians!), acquiring tables and chairs, and ensuring that attendees each bring a dish to share. Decorations, music, and art supplies add a nice touch. There is even a website where organizers can download materials and register their events. Though each event typically lasts just an evening, its impact on neighborly connection and higher use of public space can be dramatic. After being spearheaded by the tactical urbanism firm Ciudad Emergente, the phenomenon has gained a life of its own—so much so it has spawned a national holiday in Chile, called El Gran Malón, with 10,000 participants in 2019.

Access & Linkages

Comfort & Image

Uses & Activities

Sociability

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Malón Urbano
Photo Credits (All): Ciudad Emergente
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*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

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