Special Event Relief Fund

The Special Event Fee Relief Fund is a grant opportunity launched by Mayor Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED). It is a $1.5 million investment aimed at supporting events that celebrate the culture of the District of Columbia and support local communities. The fund provides financial assistance to organizers of festivals and outdoor special events to cover event expenses. To be eligible, events must occur between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024, be free and open to the public (partially ticketed events may also be eligible), celebrate DC culture or have significant economic impact on the District, not primarily aim to generate revenue or serve as a fundraiser for an organization, foster an inclusive experience, not be religiously affiliated in a way that excludes other faiths or lack thereof, and receive services from at least one eligible DC Government agency. All eligible events must also obtain a DLCP Special Events License and approval from the Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) Mayor's Special Events Task Group (MSETG) if street closures are required. Applications can be submitted on a rolling basis between October 1, 2023, and September 1, 2024, with a minimum of 30 days in advance for events occurring November 15, 2023, onwards. DMPED will directly cover unpaid DC Government fees for approved events. For inquiries about the grant opportunity, please contact specialeventfund@dc.gov.