Grilling or Barbecuing in Central Park

BBQ Rules and Best Spots for Grilling

Grilling or Barbecuing is allowed only on four specific days each year in Central Park:

  • Memorial Day (last Monday in May)*
  • Juneteenth (June 19)*
  • Fourth of July (July 4)*
  • Labor Day (first Monday in September)*

*Note: These permissions apply only to the actual holiday date, not the holiday weekend.

Planning a BBQ Picnic? We can provide the picnic setup if you provide the BBQ! Contact our Private Events team for more information or see details about our Picnic Setup package.

Best Locations to BBQ in Central Park

Please find an area north of 96th Street to grill or barbecue. The areas around the Harlem Meer on the east side of the Park, as well as the Great Hill on the west side of the Park, both offer flat spaces that are far from trees. For more information you can call the Parks Enforcement Patrol at (212) 427-8700.

Prohibited Areas

  • Playgrounds
  • Athletic fields
  • Fenced-off landscapes
  • Woodland areas (The Ramble, North Woods, Hallett Nature Sanctuary)
  • Conservatory Garden
  • High-trafficked areas

BBQ Equipment

  • Bring your own charcoal grill and equipment; Central Park does not provide grills.
  • Propane grills are strictly prohibited at all times.
  • Please use grills that keep the fire at least three feet off the ground.

Permits

  • Groups of 20 or more people require a special events permit.
  • Permits must be applied for at least 21 days in advance. Apply for a Permit.

Park Rules Prohibit

  • Use of propane grills
  • Barbecuing in non-authorized areas (see above)
  • Grilling next to trees, tree roots, or buildings (keep at least 10 feet distance)
  • Any open, ground, or camp fire (grills must be elevated)
  • Barbecuing by individuals 18 years or younger
  • Littering and dumping of debris

Cleaning Up

  • All coal and matches must be disposed of only in designated red barrels.
  • Do not discard hot coals or ashes in regular litter bins — they can damage the park and create fire hazards.
  • Use water to fully extinguish coals before disposal.

For More Information

For any questions or assistance, contact the Parks Enforcement Patrol at (212) 427-8700.