Trick-or-Streets 2026 Expression of Interest Form:
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For the fifth year in a row, NYC DOT will transform Open Streets, Plazas, and other corridors into engaging, pedestrian-friendly destinations with harvest and Halloween-themed activities. This seasonal initiative aims to add more pedestrian space on and leading up to one of the busiest nights of the year for NYC’s streets: Halloween!
In 2026, Trick-or-Streets spans the entire month of October and will feature harvest- and Halloween-themed events for all ages and abilities across all five boroughs.
We are excited to collaborate with partners on fun and engaging seasonal October events you may already be planning. To participate, NYC DOT is surveying existing Open Streets partners, Plaza partners, and community-based organizations to express interest in joining this month-long celebration. New this year is an opportunity to host neighborhood walking tours, showcasing local culture, history, and points of interest. The full list of requirements and process is detailed below. We hope you can participate in this frightening festival of fun promoting the pedestrian use of our most vast public space – NYC streets!
Please note this is an expression of interest, and submission of an application does not guarantee approval. Partners are responsible for organizing and executing their own event, programming, and permits.
Location Eligibility:
- Existing Open Streets or Plaza partners may host a Trick-or-Streets event any time throughout the month of October beginning on Thursday, October 1 and continuing through Saturday, October 31.
- Any community organizations who are interested in planning a local harvest or Halloween-themed event, including neighborhood walking tours, are also encouraged to apply.
- Interested participants may submit an application for multiple events within the one-month period, but approval for all is not guaranteed.
- Corridors on a bus route, truck route, or major thoroughfare may not qualify or may only operate on weekends.
Partner Requirements:
- Adhering to all NYC DOT and SAPO guidance and requirements
- Open Street partners must put up barriers, monitor them throughout the evening, and take them down at the conclusion of your event
- Events should prioritize pedestrians. We strongly discourage activations involving cars, trucks, and other oversized vehicles.
Permitting Process:
- Partners interested in participating must submit a response using this form by Monday, August 31st at 5pm.
- SAPO applications must include "Trick-or-Streets" in the Event Name field.
- NYC DOT and SAPO will review all responses and will approve final list of participating sites by late September.
- Existing Open Streets and Plaza partners should use the metal barriers they already have.
The deadline to apply for Trick-or-Streets is Monday, August 31st at 5:00pm.