Mayor Wu Announces Spooky Streets Grant Applications Now Open for Halloween Block Parties

Photo byCity of Boston

BOSTON, MA – Mayor Michelle Wu and the Community Engagement Cabinet’s Office of Civic Organizing have announced that applications for the Spooky Streets Grant Program are now open. This initiative offers a mini-grant opportunity for neighborhoods to host Halloween block parties, aimed at creating a safe and festive environment for children and families to celebrate the season.

Approved applicants will receive a $250 mini-grant to purchase items such as candy, pumpkins, decorations, and face paint, helping to make Halloween celebrations more accessible and affordable for communities. These grants are part of Mayor Wu’s ongoing efforts to foster family-friendly community activities throughout Boston.

“We’re working to make Boston the best place in the country to raise a family,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “These spooky streets block parties provide safe, fun, and festive opportunities for our families to celebrate Halloween with their neighbors, and that is why we’re making it easier for everyone to apply for a grant. I can’t wait to see the costumes, decorations, and community gatherings this coming fall!”

The Spooky Streets Grant builds on the success of the Summer Block Party Grant Program, which distributed $31,500 in funds to support 54 block parties across 14 neighborhoods. The Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Advancement also contributed by supporting block parties for organizations serving Boston's immigrant population.

"We're thrilled to expand our community-building efforts through the Spooky Streets Grant,” said Nathalia Benitez-Perez, Director of the Office of Civic Organizing. “With the Spooky Streets Grant, we hope to support even more events, bringing fun and traffic-free streets to Halloween and Harvest gatherings."

Key Details for Grant Applicants:

• Apply for the Play Street Closing Permit first.
• Grants are available for block parties taking place from Friday, October 25 to Sunday, November 3.
• Block parties must be free, open to the public, and held on public streets (not parks or private lots).
• Parties do not need to be Halloween-themed.

In partnership with the Mayor’s Office of New Urban Mechanics (MONUM), the City has streamlined the block party permit process, making it easier and faster to apply. This year, the City has also expanded the list of activities allowed at block parties, including potluck food, tables, chairs, and 10x10 tents without additional permits. A Block Party Planning Guide is available to assist residents in organizing their events.

“Activating our streets in the fall with fun activities that bring joy to our City’s youth and families makes me so proud to call Boston home,” said Brianna Millor, Chief of the Community Engagement Cabinet.

The deadline to apply for a Spooky Streets Grant is Friday, September 20, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Residents and community groups can apply for the grant and Play Street Closing Permit at boston.gov/spooky-streets.

For more information, visit the City of Boston's website or contact the Office of Civic Organizing.

This press release was provided by the City of Boston.