Hosting a Community Event

Hosting a special event in Maple Ridge is an opportunity to celebrate our cultural identity, community spirit and unique sense of place. By creating a new community event or sharing your ideas and creativity with an existing festival or special event, you are building and celebrating our community spirit and culture.

3 Ways to stay connected and learn more:

• Stay current with local cultural event news by subscribing to our Cultural Newsletter.
• Get involved with other events to learn, collaborate and volunteer.
• Discuss your event ideas with City staff - we would be happy to connect you to resources including the special event planning toolkit and other community event leaders. Phone: 604 467-7325 or email us.

Step 1: Review Guidelines
Once you're ready to begin, check that your event matches the following criteria:

• Located in a public space such as parks, roads, and plazas.
• Inclusive in the design, promotion and delivery of the event.
• Free or low cost.
• Takes place once a year or infrequently
• Complies with Public health Order Guidelines. See provincial website for details.

Step 2: Contact Us and Submit an Application

• Contact City staff to help confirm your eligibility and assist with your application, site map, safety and planning by calling 604-467-7325 or email to set up a meeting.
• Complete the online Special Event Application including an enhanced Covid-Safety Plan or any supporting documents.
• Applications are submitted at least 90 days before your event to allow you to complete planning and receive approval for any applicable permits.

Step 3: Application Feedback

• City staff will send an acknowledgement email upon receipt of your application.
• We will provide feedback in a timely manner and communicate with you throughout the process.
• Continue developing the event plan and read the Resources Guide (PDF).

Step 4: Preliminary Approval
Once preliminary approval is provided, move forward with your event plans which may include finalizing contracts, completing any appropriate permits and promoting your event.

Step 5: Festival Grant Program
The City provides a modest festival grant program to eligible groups and festivals held in Maple Ridge with both in-kind and cash contributions for small, medium and large festivals that are new or recurring. Review the updated 2021 Guidelines,  Festival Grant Application and Grassroots Grants Application. 

Step 6: Celebrate!
Stay connected and share your story with us are you get closer to event day. We want to help promote and celebrate your contributions to our community.