Outdoor Public Events

Our typical response time is approximately three weeks. If you need to get in touch with us, you can reach out to us at events@govisland.org.

Yes, please feel free to indicate a preferred site in your proposal. We can also give site recommendations based on the scope and nature of the event, as well as site availability.

Events that are ticketed, charge admission or take place after or before public hours are subject to site fees, to be determined during the proposal review process. Events that are free and open to the public are eligible to have site fees waived.

Please note that events may require additional services such as dedicated ferries, security, custodial services, grounds crew consultation and emergency medical services. In these cases, the organization producing the event will be responsible for these costs.

Private and ticketed public events can be held on the Island after or before public hours with special permission from the Trust. Please note that events that do not take place during normal public hours may involve additional costs associated with dedicated Island services, such as extended ferry service or security.

Event dates can be placed on hold after the Trust has received and reviewed your proposal and statement of intent. Programs are not confirmed, and dates cannot be placed on hold until a signed agreement has been received and approved by both parties.

Program and event organizers are responsible for securing a permit from the New York State Liquor Authority to serve alcohol at their event or program. The Trust must receive a copy of the liquor permit and approve all logistical plans for the area where alcohol will be served.

Please note that visitors are not permitted to bring their own alcohol to Governors Island and that alcohol is only permitted in areas designated by the Trust and only served to those over 21 years of age.

Events or programs anticipating 4,000 or more attendees are required to provide additional ferry service, at their expense, to supplement Governors Island's regularly scheduled ferries. The Trust will work with event producers to create a ferry schedule that works within the Island's existing operations, as well as make recommendations for ferry operators and capacities.

Governors Island has tents of varying sizes available for programs to rent for a fee at the responsibility of the organizer, and more information on tent specifications can be provided upon request. Governors Island does not own or rent stages, generators or A/V equipment.

Governors Island has free, public Wi-Fi in many outdoor areas on the Island. Event producers may be able to purchase dedicated Wi-Fi service with additional bandwidth from the Island’s wireless provider, or they may install wireless hotspots.

Electricity varies throughout the Island and is not available on many event sites. Most outdoor events must bring in their own portable generators to meet their electricity needs. Some areas of Governors Island currently have potable water. Please include your needs for water in your proposal. Potable water is not available at most private/ticketed event sites.

The Trust will work with event producers to advise them on a comprehensive Operational Plan including (but not limited to): a site plan, run of show, ferry transportation schedule and security/staffing plans to best work within the Island’s daily operations.

Nonprofit organizations can solicit donations, but only within the designated space reserved for your event.

For outdoor festivals and events, outside food vendors are permitted and subject to standard New York City DOHMH policies. Sales of any type should be noted in event/program proposals for review by the Trust. If you’re interested in selling art at your program or event, please get in touch with us directly at programming@govisland.org.