The Art in the Parks Fund 2025, administered by the City of Eugene Cultural Services in collaboration with Parks and Open Space, offers funding for community-driven cultural events in Eugene parks. This initiative aims to foster vibrant and inclusive public spaces by supporting diverse artistic and cultural experiences that bring communities together. Events can span various artistic disciplines, including visual arts, dance, music, theater, film, media, festivals, and other cultural expressions.

Funding is available for small-scale events (up to $2,500) and large-scale events (up to $5,000). Definitions of small and large events will be provided in the funding guidelines. Grants are open to organizations and individuals seeking to produce high-quality programming in a Eugene park. The program encourages a wide range of artistic and cultural contributions, aiming to create shared community experiences that reflect Eugene’s increasingly diverse population.

The goals of the 2025 Art in the Parks Fund include:

Activating Eugene’s parks with vibrant and inspiring events that promote personal, community, and environmental well-being.
Creating a sense of belonging and pride for historically underrepresented communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ populations, low-income residents, people with disabilities, unhoused individuals, youth, and seniors.
Encouraging cultural exchange and dialogue through the arts, fostering empathy, understanding, and wonder.
Supporting both large events in Alton Baker Park and smaller events throughout other parks in the city.
Public info sessions are available to help applicants with the process:

Online Info Session: October 16, 2024, from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom. This session will cover tips on navigating the application and budget, with a recording available afterward.
In-person Work Session: October 28, 2024, from 4-6 p.m. (location to be announced). This session is designed for applicants with developed project ideas and offers hands-on assistance.
The application deadline is noon on November 5, 2024. This grant provides an excellent opportunity for community members to contribute to Eugene's cultural landscape by organizing meaningful events that enhance public spaces and reflect the city’s diversity.