Open Streets: West Walnut to Return December 7th With Special Holiday Edition Featuring an Ice Piano Installation & Live Entertainement

The Center City District (CCD) has announced the return of Open Streets: West Walnut for one final event in 2025, presenting a special holiday edition on Sunday, December 7, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The pedestrian-focused event will once again transform Walnut Street into an open-air promenade for shopping, dining, and entertainment — this time with expanded routes and new seasonal features.

Since launching in September 2024, Open Streets: West Walnut has become one of Center City’s most popular recurring programs, drawing more than 150,000 visitors from across the region. The December edition marks its first route expansion to include the 1400 block of Walnut Street, extending the corridor from Broad to 19th Streets and along 18th Street from Chestnut to Locust.

To celebrate the holiday season, CCD will introduce a new attraction at the intersection of 18th and Walnut Streets — a baby grand piano sculpted entirely from ice. Created live on-site by Ice Sculpture Philly, the installation will evolve throughout the day as artists carve the piece, culminating in an afternoon live piano performance on the finished sculpture.

In addition to the ice piano, visitors can expect holiday-themed entertainment throughout the day, including carolers, strolling performers, bubble artists, and a visit from Santa Claus. A family-friendly zone will offer games and activities for children, while seating pods will provide comfortable spots to relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

“Throughout 2025, visitors from every corner of Philadelphia came to Center City to experience our commercial corridors reimagined as pedestrian-focused thoroughfares,” said Prema Katari Gupta, CCD President and CEO. “This holiday season, we’re excited to deck the halls and bring the community together for a day of shopping and celebration along Rittenhouse Row.”

CCD’s recent data shows that businesses along the Open Streets route have benefited significantly. During its first year, foot traffic increased by 62%, and sales rose by 36% on Open Streets Sundays compared to typical weekends. The initiative has been praised for supporting local retailers and restaurants while providing residents and visitors a new way to experience Center City’s retail and cultural district.

Participating businesses are expected to offer special discounts, holiday promotions, and expanded outdoor dining. While no supplemental vendors will be added to the event, attendees are encouraged to shop and dine at the brick-and-mortar establishments that line Walnut Street and nearby areas. Alcoholic beverages will not be permitted in open containers, and takeout food policies will vary by restaurant.

Street Closures and Logistics

• Event Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• Street Closures: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.

• Closed Streets: Walnut Street from Broad to 19th, and 18th Street from Chestnut to Locust

• Open to Traffic: Sansom, 15th, 16th, and 17th Streets