Ain’t no party like a Summer Block Party – Apply for a Grant from the City of Boston

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3.8 min readBy Maureen DahillPublished On: May 22nd, 2026Categories: News0 Comments

Just a reminder that applications are still open for the Mayor’s Office of Civic Organizing’s Summer Block Party Grant!

As Boston celebrates Boston 250 and prepares to welcome the global community for the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, the City is eager to showcase its community spirit, shared fandom, and the vibrant energy of its neighborhoods. Summer block parties strengthen Boston’s ongoing commitment to being a City of Belonging and foster a fun, safe, and healthy summer in Boston.

In its fourth year, the Mayor’s Office of Civic Organizing’s Summer Block Party Grant helps fund residents’ vision to activate their streets with joy, creating intergenerational memories and citywide community building. Residents and community groups who apply for a block party grant can receive up to $750 to purchase food, party supplies, lawn games, and other items for summer block parties to make it easier and more affordable for neighborhoods to hold community gatherings. Last year, the Office of Civic Organizing (OCO) provided 113 grants to residents and community groups hosting block parties.

In honor of Boston 250 and FIFA World Cup™, “Revolutionary Games” Block Party Kits are available to grant awardees to celebrate the legacy of activism and innovation that is woven throughout the history of Boston and its people. Neighbors can gear up with themed temporary tattoos, stickers, stencils and exclusive “Gamechangers” player cards to collect and trade as you celebrate Boston’s long lineage of revolution and sport. We’ve provided the gear, and the rest is history.

What do residents need to know before applying to a Block Party grant?

The Block Party Grant provides awards of up to $750 to support block parties across Boston.

To be eligible, events must take place on Boston streets between May and September.
All block parties must be free, open to the public, and held on public streets.
To qualify, you must first:
- Apply for a Play Street Closing Permit.
- Obtain a Vendor ID through the City of Boston.
Grant applications will be reviewed and approved on a rolling basis throughout the summer.
Application deadline: Monday, June 8, 2026.
Applications for events held in parks, private spaces, or without plans to close a street will not be considered.
Submitting an application does not guarantee funding. Grants are limited and will be awarded based on eligibility and available funds.

How to apply:

Obtain a City of Boston Vendor ID: To receive a grant payment, you need to be registered as a Supplier/Vendor ID. This also allows you to sign up for direct deposit. If you’re a first-time or returning user and need assistance, please refer to the Supplier/Vendor ID Instructions for individuals and for non-profits. For more help, email [email protected] or call 617-961-1058. During the grant application, you will be asked to provide your Vendor ID number or a screenshot of the email confirming that you started the process.
Apply for a Play Street Closing Permit: It takes about 30 business days to approve a Play Street Closing/Block Party permit. Your permit can still be pending when you apply for the grant, but it must be approved and valid by the time of your event. Your permit application is reviewed by the Boston Transportation Department and the Boston Police Department. Any questions regarding permits can be directed to [email protected] or 617-635-4680. If you have questions about what’s happening in your neighborhood or want guidance on the best dates to host your event, contact your Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services liaison.
Apply for the Block Party Grant: At the end of your Play Street Closing Permit application, you will have the option to complete an additional form to apply for the Block Party Grant. Please fill out the grant application carefully, ensuring that all information is accurate. Keep in mind that the Play Street Closing Permit application and the Block Party Grant application are separate forms, and both must be completed in order to be considered for this grant. You will receive an email confirmation with a copy of your application from Google Forms. If you do not receive this confirmation email, it most likely means the application was not completed correctly.

Already have a Play Street Permit Number? Email us at [email protected] with your PSC number in the subject line or email body, and we’ll send you the grant application link directly.

Questions? For additional details, please visit boston.gov/block-party and review our Block Party FAQ.

Maureen Dahill

Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.

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