Open Streets: West Walnut Returns This Fall
Seven consecutive weeks of car-free Sundays from September 13 through October 25 along Walnut and 18th streets
Seven consecutive weeks of car-free Sundays from September 13 through October 25 along Walnut and 18th streets
Contact
Giavana Suraci Pruiti, 215.440.5516, gpruiti@centercityphila.org, pr@centercityphila.org
PHILADELPHIA (August 11, 2026) — Center City District (CCD) today announced the return of Open Streets: West Walnut, bringing seven straight Sundays of car-free streets to Center City from September 13 through October 25. Presented by Fulton Bank, the expanded fall season invites residents and visitors to make Open Streets part of their Sunday routine while supporting the neighborhood’s restaurants, retailers, and businesses.
Since launching in September 2024, Open Streets: West Walnut has become a signature Center City experience, welcoming an average of more than 10,500 visitors each Sunday. Businesses along the route have also reported average increases of 59% in foot traffic and 37% in sales compared with a typical Sunday.
Open Streets: West Walnut will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with street closures in effect from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. along Walnut Street from Broad to 19th streets and along 18th Street from Chestnut to Locust streets. Sansom, 15th, 16th, and 17th streets will remain open to vehicular traffic.
The pedestrian-only streets serve as an extension of public space, with room for expanded al fresco dining and sidewalk retail. Businesses along the route may offer special promotions, in-store entertainment, or exclusive experiences. Food and beverages will be available exclusively from restaurants located along the route.
“There’s nothing quite like watching Walnut Street fill with people instead of traffic,” said CCD President and CEO Prema Katari Gupta. “Open Streets has become a real Center City tradition, and we’re excited to welcome everyone back for seven more Sundays of strolling, shopping, and dining downtown.”
Throughout the season, guests can enjoy live music and family-friendly experiences, and relax at in-street seating pods. The Fulton Fun Zone, located at the corner of 18th and Chestnut, will feature rotating programming including live broadcasts of Philadelphia Eagles games, mini golf, and seasonal activities. A complete entertainment schedule is available at centercityphila.org/openstreets.
“Fulton Bank is proud to serve as the presenting sponsor of Open Streets: West Walnut,” said Joe Tredinnick, Fulton Bank’s Market President for Greater Philadelphia and South Jersey. “This program brings people together while celebrating the businesses and vibrant street life that make Center City so special. We’re excited to be a part of this beloved Philly experience.”
Open Streets: West Walnut is produced by Center City District and presented by Fulton Bank, with support from the City of Philadelphia and Rittenhouse Row. Events are weather permitting and subject to change. Select performances are supported by the Music Performance Trust Fund, the American Federation of Musicians, and Local 77.
For a complete list of participating businesses, entertainment schedules, frequently asked questions, and additional information, visit centercityphila.org/openstreets.
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Center City District, partner to property owners and downtown stakeholders, is the steward and advocate for a clean, safe and thriving Center City Philadelphia. Find us at www.centercityphila.org.
