Use a Garden

Our gardens are community hubs.

Our community event applications for the 2023 season is open. Please read the following before filling out the form below.

This season’s funding for the Community Garden Activation Program (CGAP) has been expended. Thank you to all the groups who participated in CGAP!

We hope more groups will take advantage of CGAP next year, so check back here over the next several months for next season.

PLEASE NOTE: You may still use the CGAP form to request equipment loans for your events this season.

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BEFORE APPLYING: 

When Are NYRP gardens open for hosting events?
NYRP’s gardens are open to host events from April – October.  

What kind of event can I hold in a community garden?
Events in NYRP’s gardens cover a wide range of interests and activities. In the past, our spaces have hosted: 

• Music and Dance Performances 
• Artistic, Educational, and Cooking Workshops 
• Fitness/Yoga/Mediation Classes 
• Movie Nights 
• Block Parties and Holiday Celebrations 
• Back-to-School Supply Distributions 
• Theatrical Performances 
• Lectures and Panel Discussions 

We are also open to other types of events you may be interested in hosting for the community. Please note: Sales of goods and services are not permitted at NYRP’s gardens. 

I am not a member of the garden where I would like to host an event. Can I still apply to host an event?
Yes, however, the garden group must approve the event. We recommend attending a garden meeting to meet the gardeners and discuss your event before applying. 

Is there a deadline for the grant program?
Applications should be submitted at least one month prior to the event date, with approval processed on a rolling basis. Applications for events in September or October must be submitted by August. 

We encourage submitting your application as soon as you are able to ensure the garden will be available for your preferred date and time. For events requesting funding and equipment, submitting your application as early as possible will also help ensure the requested resources will be available. 

Do I need to apply for equipment and money for my event?
No! Requesting funding and equipment from NYRP is optional. You may also request only equipment or only funding. 

How much funding can I request?
You may request up to $500 per event. While we will do our best to provide the requested amount, the amount of funding alotted will depends on many factors including the size and type of event, as well as the supplies needed, etc. All funding will be reimbursed after the event.

How can I use the funding?
Funding may be used to support publicly accessible events in NYRP gardens. Funds may be used for:  

• Physical Materials (e.g., paint for arts and crafts workshops, holiday decorations, and school supplies for distribution) 
• Fitness Instructors and Workshop Facilitators 
• Live Entertainment (e.g., Musicians and theatrical performers) 

Please note: Funding cannot be used for food or beverages. 

---

Additional information:

• Please allow up to four weeks for review and approval of your application.
• Applications of just equipment, dependent on availability may have a shorter turn around.
• Any events with amplified sound must obtain a Sound Permit from the NYPD.

Resources:

• NYPD Sound Permit
• Sanitation
• Movie Licenses

If you have any questions about how to host a community event in our gardens in 2023, please contact us at [email protected].