Boston – The Mayor’s Office has announced the launch of the third year of block party grants aimed at fostering community engagement and connection among residents.
Applications for these mini-grants are now open, offering funding of up to $750 for individuals and community groups looking to host summer block parties.
The initiative encourages neighborhoods to come together, creating opportunities for fun and camaraderie through activities such as food, games, and entertainment.
Mayor Michelle Wu expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, “Block parties are a great opportunity to unite Boston’s diverse communities and strengthen our neighborhoods. These Block Party Grants help community members fill our streets with exciting, safe, family-friendly fun this summer.”
City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune also shared her support, highlighting how block parties transform streets into shared spaces, stating, “With every block party, neighbors become friends, and streets become neighborhoods.”
The grants aim to make it easier and more affordable for neighborhoods—ranging from youths to seniors—to join in the celebrations and strengthen community ties.
City Councilor Henry Santana noted, “As an At-Large Councilor representing all of Boston, I see firsthand that block parties are more than just celebrations; they help solidify the stability, resiliency, and safety of our neighborhoods and city.”
Last year, the Office of Civic Organizing (OCO) was instrumental in providing 52 grants, which totaled over $30,000 to support block parties across Boston. This year’s funding continues the Mayor’s commitment to creating a vibrant, enjoyable, and healthy summer for all residents.
“Block parties are more than just events—they are moments of connection, joy, and community building,” said Director of the Office of Civic Organizing Nathalia Benitez-Perez.
She emphasized the importance of granting residents the resources necessary to create lasting memories and drive community cohesion.
Residents interested in applying for a block party grant should be aware of specific requirements before submitting their applications.
To host a block party on a public street, applicants must secure a Play Street Closing Permit, which can be obtained online at boston.gov/blockparty.
Grant funding applications need to be submitted at least four weeks prior to the proposed event date, ensuring adequate time for processing.
Eligible block parties must be free, open to everyone, and take place on public streets.
The applications will be approved on a rolling basis until July 11, 2025, allowing for support throughout the summer months.
Chief of the Community Engagement Cabinet, Brianna Millor, highlighted Boston’s unique flair for celebrating through block parties: “From the summer to the fall, our streets are activated with the sounds of children’s laughter and the voices of our elders making connections with their neighbors.”
Brianna expressed excitement about continuing to support residents in making their block parties bigger and better each year.
Proactively, the Office of Civic Organizing plans to host an information session for community members interested in applying for the grants.
This session will take place on Wednesday, May 28 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., providing further details on what is required to successfully apply.
Participants can register for the session to learn how to navigate the application process and ensure they meet all criteria.
The grant application deadline is set for Friday, July 11 at 5:00 p.m., with both the application for the grant and the Play Street Closing Permit available online.
Jessica Connors Brown, a resident from Charlestown, shared her block party experience from last summer. She noted, “To the best of the neighbors’ knowledge, our street has never hosted a block party before. However, last summer, we had great attendance at both our summer and Halloween block parties.”
Thanks to the grant, Jessica’s community was able to purchase outdoor games such as cornhole and giant Jenga, along with snacks and activities for children, all fostering greater neighborhood engagement.
Another resident, Carrie Van Horn from East Boston, echoed the sentiment of community bonding, saying, “The Block Party is a wonderful opportunity to welcome new neighbors and meet those who have lived in the neighborhood for many years.
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