Use a Garden

Host a free event in an NYRP community garden

New York Restoration Project offers small grants and equipment support to help community members host free, public events in our gardens. Whether you’re planning a workshop, performance, or neighborhood gathering, we’re here to help bring it to life.

---

Please read our FAQ before applying:

What types of programs can I hold in a community garden? 

Events in NYRP’s gardens cover a wide range of interests and activities, including: 

• Live music, dance, and theatrical performances 

• Artistic, educational, and cooking workshops 

• Fitness, yoga, mediation, and other wellness classes 

• Movie nights 

• Block parties 

• Holiday celebrations 

• Back-to-school supply distributions 

• Lectures, panel discussions, and community meetings 

In addition to the above, NYRP and garden groups are also receptive new and unique types of events! The only requirements for programming and events at NYRPs gardens are: 

• Free for all attendees; 

• Accessible to the general public; 

• Exclude for-profit activities;  

• Approved by the garden group; and 

• Adhere to NYRP’s standard garden rules and safety protocols. 

Please note: NYRP staff do not coordinate private or personal events, such as birthday parties, baby showers, etc. Please contact the garden group directly about these types of events. 

What is the process to request to use an NYRP garden for public programs and events? 

There are two ways to request to use an NYRP garden: 

1. Fill out the form below. Once you submit your request, NYRP staff and that garden’s members will review the information provided. Within two weeks, NYRP will confirm whether your request is approved or not. 

2. Contact the garden members when planning your event. Once your event’s details are finalized and the garden group has approved, the garden group may submit the event request on your behalf. If the garden group submits the request on your behalf, you may be eligible for more types of resources from NYRP than you would if you submit the request yourself (more info on this is below). 

Once your request is approved, NYRP will follow up regarding documentation, delivery of equipment, access to the space, promotion, and any additional logistics.  

What support can NYRP provide for my event? 

Depending on the type of event and scheduling, NYRP may be able to provide several types of support, including: 

1. Promotion – NYRP can post your event on our website’s event calendar and social media channels. We can also share information with our partners and community networks to reach potential participants on the ground. 

1. Equipment – NYRP has a variety of physical equipment available on request, including speakers, microphones, power generators, folding tables, chairs, pop-up tents, and more. A full list of equipment is on the form below. 

Is there a deadline for submitting requests? 

Applications must be submitted at least one month prior to the event date. Requests are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. To ensure the garden will be available for your preferred date and time, we recommend submitting your application as far in advance as you can. If you are requesting equipment, submitting your application earlier will also help ensure the requested resources will be available. 

 Please note: Allow up to two weeks for review and approval of your application. 

Do I need to apply for equipment for my event? 

No! Requesting equipment or other support from NYRP is optional. You may request to just use the garden. 

Can I request funding?  
External organizations and individuals cannot directly request funding when submitting an event request. However: 

As noted above, you may contact a garden group to coordinate planning before submitting an event request. Once your event’s details are finalized and the garden group has approved your event, the garden group may submit your event request on your behalf. If the garden group submits your request on your behalf, the garden group may request up to $250 for your event. NYRP will provide the funding as a reimbursement after your event.  

What expenses will NYRP reimburse? 

Funding may be used for: 

• Physical materials (e.g. paint for arts and crafts workshops, holiday decorations, and school supplies for distribution, etc.) 

• Fitness instructors and workshop facilitators 

• Live entertainment (e.g. musicians and theatrical performers) 

Please note: Funding cannot be used for food or beverages, with the exception of ingredients in cooking demonstrations. 

How can I contact a garden group to coordinate my event and submit a request? 

There are several ways to contact NYRP’s garden groups: 

• Go to the garden any time and see if the info is posted on the bulletin board or other signage. You can also check the garden’s upcoming events and attend an event to speak with a garden member. 

• Email [email protected], and an NYRP staffer will provide the relevant info. 

May I sell goods and services for a profit at NYRP’s gardens? 

Sales of goods and services are not permitted at NYRP’s gardens. Event organizers may ask for donations toward the garden. 

Do I need any city permits to host an event in a garden? 

Any events with amplified sound must attempt to obtain a Sound Permit from the NYPD.