NYC Open Culture Program Resources

Open Culture is a new City government program that allows ticketed, socially distanced outdoor performances, rehearsals, and classes at nearly 200 street locations throughout the five boroughs. Arts and cultural institutions, as well as entertainment venues, can apply for an Open Culture permit from the New York City Street Activity Permit Office for the low fee of $20.

For the Open Culture Program guidelines, an FAQ, and the application, visit the New York City Street Activity Permit Office’s website.

Click here for The Open Culture Roadmap: Tips for a Successful Performance in the Street. The Roadmap provides tips for community relations, preparation before the Open Culture event, and activity on the day of the event, and it gives examples of set ups of street performances. It is intended for Open Culture participants with little to no experience mounting productions in New York City streets.

Click here for sample posters specifically for Open Culture participants. For additional COVID-19 safety posters, visit the NYC Health Department's website and the NYS Department of Health website.

For any questions about permits that are not answered in SAPO’s FAQ, please email OpenCulture@cityhall.nyc.gov. For questions about The Roadmap, please fill out this form and MOME will be in touch.

NYS Department of Health rules for face coverings and social distancing: Title 10 of the Codes, Rules, and Regulations of the State of New York Subpart 66-3 (10 NYCRR 66-3)

Several unions and performing arts organizations have published health and safety guidance for live performance. The guidance listed below is not a governmental mandate and it has not been reviewed by the NYC Health Department; we provide it for informational purposes only.