Special Events - Calendar & Permits

People at an outdoor event. Man dancing or cheering.

Special Events Calendar


Check out what's happening in Durham today, tomorrow, or this weekend! 


Event organizers, please consult this Special Events Calendar before submitting your special event permit application to ensure that there are no conflicts related to event space or volume on your preferred date.

Organizing an Event?




A special event permit is required for any event that:


  • Is located on City-owned property or outdoor public space; and

  • Requires the temporary closing of public streets, sidewalks, rights-of-way; and/or

  • Is a complex event that requires some level of City assistance or resource

IMPORTANT UPDATES



Limitations on walk and run events


As with all Special Events, permits for Walk and Run events are subject to the Special Event Review Team (SERT). Due to staffing and safety concerns, new races that require road closures may be encouraged to choose another date, consider alternate routes, or may not be approved. 


Please get in touch with us at [email protected] with any questions.

Police officer escorting a crowd full of runners in the Bull City Running road race.

NEW - Special Event Solid Waste Fee Waiver


The City of Durham is waiving solid waste cart rental fees for all special events from July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022. We understand that COVID-19 hurt many businesses last year, and we want to encourage event coordinators to resume special events without experiencing additional costs as Durham reopens. 

Special events fees will be waived during this time; however, event hosts are still responsible for all carts in their possession. The event could be liable for cart repair or replacement costs if all carts are not kept in good condition and if any are missing. Also, the Department of Solid Waste Management is not able to provide services beyond those that have been provided in the past for events.

Once your event is approved, please submit your cart rental applications to [email protected] at least 30 days before your event.

COVID-19 Updates

 

Special Events are being permitted until further notice according to regulations set forth by the City of Durham COVID-19 Guidelines


Event permit applications that do not adhere to the regulations for mass gatherings outlined by the City of Durham guidelines will not be approved.


Additionally, the City reserves the right to rescind any special event permit if it becomes clear that the event will not be able to adhere to local Covid-19 regulations that will apply on the date(s) of the event.

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