Open Streets, a community event led by Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, will be held in East Boston this Sunday, Sept. 15 from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The event will be held between Meridian Street from Maverick to Porter and Bennington from Porter to Day Square.
The streets will be temporarily closed to vehicular traffic to create room for community and play. The half-day event will allow local businesses to expand into the street, and to safely make space for music, games, bicycling, community tabling, and more.
The pedestrian-focused event builds on Mayor Wu’s commitment to reimagining our streets and making Boston the best city in the country for families.
“Over the last two years, we have seen Open Streets events transform public streets into shared community spaces where residents can experience the full liveliness of our neighborhoods and small businesses can be supported,” said Mayor Wu. “We’re thrilled to keep this going this year.”
The timing of the Open Streets series has been extended from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This year, streets will close to vehicular traffic at 9 a.m. and reopen at 6 p.m.
“Expanding our Open Streets events gives residents more opportunities to explore new neighborhoods in their city,” said Jascha Franklin-Hodge, Chief of Streets. “Open Streets bring neighborhoods together to enjoy a safe, fun environment for walking, biking, and recreation.”
“Open Streets events are a wonderful opportunity for Boston residents to support small businesses and enjoy their neighborhoods,” said Segun Idowu, Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion. “I appreciate the Mayor and colleagues across the Administration, our partners in the field, and the women- and BIPOC-led businesses helping to grow the number of safe and successful Open Streets events. I have been a part of this project since the beginning and feel honored to celebrate this year again.”
Open Streets programming will include food trucks, face painting, balloon animals, crafts, interactive games, photo installations, exclusive performances and activations, and Pedicabs. New this year, the Boston Fire Department and the Office of Emergency Management are partnering to introduce hydrant-fed misting stations at key locations to help residents stay cool at Open Streets events.
Open Streets first started in the summer of 2022 with three neighborhoods.
The City is contracting again this year with Shana Bryant Consulting, a Black- and woman-owned small business, to carry out Boston’s Open Streets program.
“Shana Bryant Consulting is thrilled that Open Streets Boston is back. We will have programming for all ages, and we are excited to bring back the kids and music hubs, vendor and resource rows, and of course, food from local restaurants and Pedicabs. We look forward to seeing you in East Boston,” said Shana Bryant.”