The Open Streets program is squeezing in one more event for 2025, and this one will include an icy instrument.<\/p>\n
Center City District will once again close select blocks near Rittenhouse Square to cars on Sunday, Dec. 7. The initiative<\/a>, designed to encourage foot traffic, will span Walnut Street from 19th to Broad streets and 18th Street between Chestnut and Locust streets.\u00a0<\/p>\n MORE:\u00a0City officials point residents to food aid resources amid SNAP pause<\/a><\/p>\n Pedestrians who linger by one particular corner will catch a holiday spectacle: artists carving a frozen baby grand piano.\u00a0Ice Sculpture Philly will build out the installation at 18th and Walnut during the morning and early afternoon, with a performance to follow at 3 p.m.<\/p>\n The CCD is programming other entertainment between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Live musicians, dancers, jump-ropers and carolers will perform on the sidewalk, where Santa Claus is expected to pay kids a visit. Select shops and restaurants along the route will also host in-store events and giveaways.\u00a0<\/p>\n Designated streets will be closed to vehicles from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.<\/p>\n Open Streets has popped up<\/a> periodically<\/a> since its launch in September 2024. It expanded beyond its usual seven-block stretch of Rittenhouse in June, when the initiative came to the Gayborhood<\/a>. The upcoming December event will include the 1400 block of Walnut Street for the first time.<\/p>\n According to the district, the initiative has brought more business to the area. Establishments on the route reported 62% more foot traffic and 36% higher sales during Open Streets events compared with their usual Sundays.<\/p>\n Follow Kristin & PhillyVoice on Twitter: @kristin_hunt
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