Mayor Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) launched the Special Event Relief Fund, a $1.5 million investment to support events that celebrate the culture of the District of Columbia and support local communities. The Special Event Relief Fund allows organizers of festivals and outdoor special events to apply for financial assistance to cover event expenses.

Opened: October 1, 2023
Closing: September 1, 2024

To be eligible for the Special Event Relief Fund, applicants must meet the following criteria:

The outdoor event must occur between October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024.

Events must be free and open to the public. Events that are ticketed, but include at least a component that is free and open to the public, may be eligible for partial fee coverage.

Events must celebrate the culture of DC or be able to demonstrate that the event will have significant economic impact on the District.

The main purpose of the event should not be to generate revenue or serve as a fundraiser for an organization.

The event must be committed to fostering an inclusive experience.

The event cannot be religiously affiliated in a way that excludes other faiths or forms of belief, or lack thereof.

The applicant must be the event organizer.

Events must receive DC Government services from at least one of the eligible agencies: MPD, FEMS, DPW, DDOT, DPR, DOH, ABCA, DLCP, DOB

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