Aurora offers funding for neighborhood festivals
As progress is made in coping with the COVID-19 pandemic, the city of Aurora is offering financial assistance to local organizations planning neighborhood events this year.
Neighborhood and community groups planning a public event in 2021 may apply for a Neighborhood Festival Funding Grant.
Funding, which is limited to $1,500 per applicant, is made available to assist groups that are hosting public events designed to educate, benefit, organize and/or connect Aurora residents. Funds can pay for necessary support services such as table and chair rental, sound systems, stages, tents or other expenses.
Events must take place between June 1 and Dec. 31, 2021. All organizations must comply with COVID-19 protocols in place at the time of the event.
Organizations are encouraged to apply promptly to this offer before funds run out. No applications will be accepted after Oct. 1, 2021.
Events that have received Aurora Festival Funding in the past include Roots Aurora, the LaSalle Street Car Show, Juneteenth, and Dia De Los Muertos.
Application documents can be obtained through the Aurora Community Services Department.
To request an application, contact Aurora Community Services at (630) 256-3400 or email dhakala@aurora.il.us.
Applications can be submitted via email to dhakala@aurora.il.us.
Questions about the Aurora Festival Funding program may be directed to Dee Hakala in the Community Services Department, during regular business hours, at (630) 918-1229.
Neighborhood Festival Funds also are available to support events that require a special event permit from the city. The city's Special Events Division issues permits to groups who either hold events on city property or produce events that require city services such as having members from the police or fire departments present.
City Special Event Permits are being accepted for events held after June 1, 2021. Special Event Permit Applications must be submitted at least 90 days prior to any event date.
Information on special events and the special event permit applications can be found on the city website, www.aurora-il.org/1260/Permits-Applications. The Special Events Division may be contacted at (630) 256-3370 or by email at events@aurora.il.us.