Mayor Michelle Wu Announces Applications Open for Boston Block Party Grant Program, Supported by New Partnerships withElevate Cities

Mayor Michelle Wu, the Human Services Cabinet and the Office of Neighborhood Services today announced that applications for Boston’s fall block party grant program are now open. Residents and community groups who apply and get approved will receive grants up to $500 to purchase materials for block parties, making it easier and more affordable for residents and families to host events, get together and celebrate this fall.  

This announcement builds on the Mayor’s work to make Boston a home for everyone through fun and safe programming. By bringing together different departments, the City is making it easier for more residents and community organizations to host fun, welcoming and family-friendly events. Boston’s fall block party grant program is funded by a new partnership with Elevate Cities, a non-profit organization committed to sparking joy, belonging, and civic pride in cities around the world. 

“We’re working every day to make Boston a beautiful, welcoming, family-friendly home for everyone—and that means creating every opportunity to connect and build community,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Boston’s block party program supports residents hosting their own gatherings to bring people together and create lasting memories and bonds. This year, with support from Elevate Cities, we are making it easier for even more residents to host block parties and turn our streets into joyful community spaces.”

In celebration of Good Neighbor Day, Elevate Cities is providing $25,000 to help the City support more resident-led events that bring neighbors together. This new partnership advances Good Neighbor Day’s programming and goal of strengthening neighborhood connections and marks Elevate Cities’ expansion to Boston, following its launch in Miami in 2025. 

“What a joy it is to bring Elevate Cities to Boston, a city with such a deep commitment to community and belonging,” said Kim Coupounas, CEO of Elevate Cities. “Mayor Wu and the City have made it a priority to build a Boston where everyone feels they belong and can take part in civic life. We’re thrilled to come alongside that work and help create more opportunities for neighbors to meet, celebrate their communities and strengthen the bonds that make this city so special.”

With this support from Elevate Cities, residents can also apply to receive funding from the City’s Spooky Streets and Fall Harvest block party grants, which are all aimed at making it easier and more affordable for neighborhoods to host events this fall.

Applications for the Fall Block Party Grants are now open on the City’s website until the deadline on Friday, October 23 at 5:00 p.m. The City will review applications on a rolling basis. Good Neighbor mini-grants are available for up to $500 for residents to purchase items such as food, entertainment, and face paint. 

Residents interested in applying should review the following steps: 

1. Apply for the Play Street Closing Permit here. Once the application is filled out, applicants will be prompted to apply for City’s block party grants program. Applying for a permit does not guarantee a grant. You must also apply for the grant online at boston.gov/blockparty
2. To be eligible, all block parties must be free, open to the public and take place on public streets. Residents cannot sell or charge anything at the event.
3. Block parties do not have to be Halloween-themed
4. Residents must apply for grant funding at least three weeks prior to their proposed event.

To celebrate the September 28 National Good Neighbor Day, a day of recognition celebrating the everyday acts of kindness and connection that strengthen our neighborhoods stronger, the City is encouraging residents to nominate neighbors who go above and beyond to ensure their communities are a place of belonging and a home for everyone. Additionally, the Boston Public Library will offer small kits at their branch locations for residents to pick up. The kits are designed to encourage residents to connect with another and will include bingo cards, bookmarks, and handmade trinkets.  

“Good Neighbor Day is a reminder that the heart of our city lies in our neighborhoods and the people who care for them,” said José Massó, Chief of Human Services. “With the launch of the Good Neighbor grants program, we are putting resources directly into the hands of residents to turn their creative ideas into action. Whether it’s hosting a party or organizing a neighborhood clean up, these grants are designed to activate local spaces, foster meaningful connections, and empower our neighbors.”

“Boston residents epitomize being good neighbors,” said Mohammed Missouri, Executive Director, Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services. “This fall, our neighborhoods will come alive with festivities celebrating the diverse cultures and communities that make Boston a home for everyone. We’re grateful for partners like Elevate Cities who share our commitment to making cities fun and welcoming for all.”

For grant applications, nominations, updates and event details, please visit boston.gov/good-neighbor.