Reserve Space in a City Park

All reservations for special events in, or around, a park are initiated within the Syracuse Parks & Recreation Office of Special Events, except for Athletic Field Rental Requests, which are processed by the Office of Adult Recreation. 

Private Events

We have several sites available to reserve for private events such as birthday parties, family reunions, and weddings that allows exclusive rights to a space within a park. 

Community Events, Festivals, Races and Parades 

To request a permit for community event, festival, race and parade in, or around a park, email eventpermits@syrgov.net to set up a meeting with the Special Events Coordinator to discuss your event at least 60 days prior to the first proposed event date. This meeting will determine the type of event and availability. Additional permits and requirements may be required after a full Committee review of the application. 

Event Cancellations or Postponements 

A full refund will be issued if the event is cancelled or postponed, in writing, 30 days before the event start, excluding the credit card transaction fee and $5.00 processing fee. Email your refund requests to eventpermits@syrgov.net. Refunds will only be given to the original applicant listed on the Permit. Refunds will be reimbursed to the credit card that was used. If payment was made by cash or check, a refund check will be mailed to the address of the person/organization paying the permit fees. Issuance of refund checks will take between 4-6 weeks.

The City reserves the right to cancel reservations at their discretion, for any reason, including, but not limited to, maintenance or unsafe conditions. Refunds will be provided in these instances without the holding of the processing fee. 

Denial of Event Application/Request 

The City of Syracuse’s Event Advisory Committee may deny an event permit application on one or more of the following grounds:

  • An incomplete application
  • The application contains misrepresentation or fraudulent information.
  • The applicant has an outstanding invoice to the City.
  • Pending application is being considered for same date and location.
  • Conflicting date and location with City programming.
  • Applicant does not follow all applicable city ordinances, park rules, state rules, fire codes and liquor licensing regulations.
  • If applicant is unable to follow applicable local, state and federal license requirements for event.
  • Event proposed by applicant presents a danger to the health or safety of the public or applicant.
  • If event is against the law.