Center City District’s Open Streets: West Walnut Returns This April With Car-Free Sundays Filled With Shopping, Food & Fun
Open Streets: West Walnut is back, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly takeover of Center City’s premier shopping and dining corridor.
Presented by Center City District, with support from Rittenhouse Row and the City of Philadelphia, the program transforms eight blocks of West Walnut and 18th Street into a car-free destination filled with energy, entertainment, and community connection.
From Sunday, April 5 through May 17, guests can stroll through the heart of Rittenhouse every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., as streets are closed to vehicular traffic along:
• Walnut Street (Broad to 19th)
• 18th Street (Locust to Chestnut)
The result is a pedestrian-first experience where visitors can explore, shop, dine, and play freely across eight blocks of open space.
Expect a lively atmosphere filled with:
• Busker-style musicians and pop-up performers
• Strolling bubble magic and street entertainment
• A dedicated family-friendly zone with games and activities
• Easy access via open cross streets at select intersections
Open Streets isn’t just about the vibes—it’s also a chance to engage directly with some of Center City’s top retailers and wellness spots, many of which are offering exclusive activations and promotions throughout the series.
Highlights include:
• Catbird
Waiving piercing fees and offering gift bags and snacks on select Sundays.
• Madewell
Hosting a denim recycling pop-up—bring in old jeans (any brand) and receive a $20 coupon toward a new pair.
• Philadelphia Runner
Featuring sidewalk sales, in-store events, and interactive street activations.
• ReGen Corrective Massage
Offering complimentary 5-minute sample sports massages on select dates.
• The Sporting Club at The Bellevue
Spin the wheel for prizes and surprises.
• State & Liberty
Test your strength on their pull-up bar to earn exclusive
The series kicks off on April 5 (Easter Sunday) with a full day of themed programming designed for all ages. Families can look forward to:
• Easter Bunny appearances and photo ops
• Easter Treat Trail with candy giveaways at participating businesses
• Easter crafts, chalk art, and egg roll races
• Live music, dancing, and double dutch lessons
This opening day sets the tone for a season of playful, interactive programming that blends community, culture, and creativity.
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Weekly Entertainment & Can’t-Miss Moments
Each Sunday brings a fresh lineup of entertainment, ensuring no two visits are the same. Throughout the series, guests can enjoy:
• Live musicians from late morning through the afternoon
• Bubble magic performances for kids and families
• Double Dutch lessons with Philly Girls Jump
• Special performances like the Lady Hoofers Tap Ensemble and Curtis Institute pop-ups
Signature dates to mark on your calendar:
• April 19: Tap dance performances and live music activations
• May 10 (Mother’s Day): Flower giveaways, mini golf, and live entertainment
• May 17: Children’s bike race track and a performance by the Fralinger String Band
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A Celebration of Community, Culture, and City Life
Open Streets: West Walnut continues to redefine how Philadelphians experience their city—turning busy commercial corridors into vibrant public spaces where community takes center stage.
Whether you’re grabbing brunch, shopping your favorite brands, or simply soaking in the spring sunshine, this weekly series offers a refreshing way to reconnect with Center City.
