Public Realm Programming

NYC DOT’s Public Realm Programming initiative showcases a variety of enriching activities available to help activate public spaces across the city.

Apply now for the Public Realm Programming Request for Qualifications (RFQ)!

Young dancers in colorful skirts perform in front of a crowd at a plaza event. — Kensington Plaza, Brooklyn

Overview

This program connects public spaces, such as plazas and Open Streets, with local organizations to positively engage communities. All activities are free and open to New Yorkers of all ages and abilities.

Through arts, culture, fitness, active transportation, and educational programming, NYC DOT aims to promote the positive use of public space. With a focus on offering experiences to communities in need, Public Realm Programming supports neighborhoods in NYC DOT Priority Investment and Public Space Priority Areas, as identified in the NYC Streets Plan.

To learn more about upcoming programming events on Open Streets and other public spaces, please sign up for the Public Realm Programming newsletter or email programming@dot.nyc.gov.

Types of Programming

Organizations listed in our catalog offer programming in the following categories:

Two performers present interpretive dance on top of a carpet in the street while an engaged crowd of onlookers observes. — Car-Free Earth Day 2025 activation by Pigeonwing Dance on Polhemus Place Open Street, Brooklyn

Arts and Culture

Live performances including theater, dance, music, comedians, puppetry, or singing
Interactive creative workshops and cultural experiences
Events that aim to activate public spaces while honoring the traditions and creative expressions of the city’s diverse communities

Active Transportation

Physical activities, outreach, and education related to cycling, micromobility, walking, and other forms of active transportation
Learn-to-ride classes, safety clinics, and group rides
Running, walking, and rolling clubs or tours that promote sustainable modes of transportation

Learning and Education

Learning opportunities in collaboration with schools, community educators, and cultural partners
Outdoor pop-up learning labs, STEM-based curriculums, literacy programs, book giveaways, civic engagement sessions, and informational resource tabling

Children draw and color on a street closed to vehicular traffic. — Bathgate Avenue Open Street, The Bronx

Health and Wellness

Promotes physical and mental well-being through accessible healthy lifestyle habits and recreational activities

Design & Placemaking

Innovative placemaking through temporary design interventions that enhance comfort, usability, and aesthetic value
Design-related installations shown through landscape architecture, graphic design, architecture, and other interactive displays

Climate and Sustainability

Initiatives that educate and inspire meaningful steps toward reducing environmental impact, while ensuring events themselves are models of sustainability
Climate action workshops showcasing horticultural care, composting demos, waste reduction and solutions

Production services

Technical and logistical event support
Audio/visual enhancement, stage management, photographers, videographers, event setup/ breakdown, live streaming, and outdoor screenings
Can support all program activation types